Back in the year 1998, the FIRST Robotics Competition gave me the opportunity to be involved in my first major engineering project. As a member of Team 67 (Heros of Tomorrow), which was sponsored by the General Motors Proving Grounds in Milford, MI, I had the opportunity to be mentored by engineers and get hands-on experience programming, designing, and building electrical systems. Recognizing the importance that FIRST played in my own career, I’ve made it a priority to help sponsor robotics teams. This year, I’ve had the pleasure of contributing to two teams; Team 7769 and Team 8728.
This last weekend, FIRST Robotics Team 7769 The CREW from OSTC-SE out of Royal Oak, MI took home gold at the Walled Lake District Event. Team 7769 paired up with the #1 alliance for the elimination rounds and went undefeated in 6 playoff matches to become the event winner. Team 7769 consists of juniors and seniors from different school districts and are guided by adult mentors to complete a new game task each year.
Team 7769 The CREW will now be moving on to the Michigan State Championship at Saginaw Valley State University this weekend 4/14/22-4/16/22 This team would not be possible without their amazing sponsors Plastic Omnium, NASA, Beningo Embedded Group, Ford, Hirotec America, Fori Automation, Fire Defense Equipment Co., Kawasaki Robotics, Hallmark Tool & Gage, FCA Foundation & Oakland Schools Technical Campus Southeast.
Team 7769 is always looking for more sponsors to help offset the costs for students, improve student skills, and invest in equipment and new technology. If interested in learning more about the program please contact Steve Smitka at [email protected].
