Summer Shop Classes

[Devan Shoemaker]

Hi all. Devan Shoemaker here, ex-shop manager for 2468 as of last Thursday. Letting you know that you all are encouraged to spare some time this summer to attend Mr. Howell's summer shop classes if you plan on remaining in either FTC or moving into FRC next year. 

Let me say personally that it's these informal trainings that holds the manufacturing team together by introducing you to tools that you were probably not exposed to in FTC, and helping you get to know the shop leads next year.

At these classes you'll learn useful machining techniques, how to troubleshoot problems with power tools, and how to go about making custom parts from raw stock. Skills useful to anyone wanting enhance their value as a team member for both FTC and FRC, and skills essential to anyone wanting to be a designer or manufacturer in FRC. 

If you're interested please do respond respond to me and Mr. Howell ( andy@gamubaru.com ) with the times this summer where you will be available to meet at the shop one or more times during the week, for a few hours each day. You should seriously check you schedule because I'll be pretty sad if you end up going on a week-long cruise the very week that you say you will be available. Also include your incoming grade and whether you plan on moving up to FRC when you can.

Also if you’re interested in getting a head start now during the year, tell me (DevSho...@gmail.com), Mr. Howell ( andy@gamubaru.com ), William Bundrant (Bundran...@gmail.com), and Alex Etter (adrum...@gmail.com) and at least one of us can make a time to look at the shop tools one-on-one. I literally have nothing more to do and am just waiting for the year to end, so I’m available whenever. This is the best opportunity to meet next year leadership.

There are several simple but important prerequisites however: Parent Permission (In case of lawsuits), respect for the safety of yourself and others (to prevent lawsuits), and perhaps a small fee to pay for materials (and lawyers). 

I'll end with my favorite quote from Mr. Howell himself:

"Make yourself a stronger team play(er) for next season by honing your skill now."

Have a nice night,

Devan S

P.S. While this message was directed towards Students in FTC, FRC veterans, you are perfectly welcome too if you want to improve on your skills or help out others. Just Slack or Email me if interested.