Hello! My name is Rahul Sawant and this is my fourth and final year on the Build Team. I joined the robotics team because I believe that technology is the future. Robotics and engineering have been transforming the world, and I want to the part of that. Last year, as a junior, I learned vital skills for future seasons as well as in real life. From “CADing” to prototyping to machining, everything was an experience that I used to better my knowledge.
Over the last three years, I learned design principles, CNC machining, and leadership skills. From the beginning of January to the end of April you can catch me in the Tech Lab most likely designing, machining, or working on the robot. As the Chief Technical Officer, I am tasked with: leading the build team, designing and machining the robot, and working in the pit. My job starts on the first Saturday of January when the challenge is revealed to the entire FIRST community. From there, over 200 hours are spent working nonstop, constantly iterating and tweaking the robot.
After the six week build period, my role shifts to working in the pit and talking to judges. In the 10’ by 10’ pit I work on fixing the robot in high-pressure situations. I articulate to judges the components of the robot, explaining how each subsystem successfully completes the task given to us. The aura of the competition is one of the greatest experiences. Joining the robotics team was one of the best decisions I ever made. Due to the robotics team, I have found my way into engineering, and it allowed me to pick my intended major of mechanical engineering. The team has taught me so much as an engineer and as a person, and I will never forget my high school experience on my FIRST robotics team.
These last four years have been the highlight of my high school career. After working with my friends for six weeks nonstop, we feel more like a family. After all, I see them more than I see my real family! As my last season is upon me, I hope for an amazing season and to learn and develop as a person.