Shop class

[Andy Howell]

In previous years I have offered an informal shop class during the
summer. Last year we made some scribes on the lathe and worked on couple
projects on the mill. I've got a few new ideas for projects this year.

I would like to run it a little differently than previous years, and
have knowledgeable students lead the training. I'll there for safety and
to fill in any gaps.

I need a few students that would be interested in being the trainers.
You don't have to commit to being there for every class.

We would likely meet 2 or 3 days a week, for a couple hours each day.
Last year we had two shifts with a one hour overlap so that students had
more time on the machines. Lectures/demonstrations were held in the
middle hour.

I'm busy until late afternoon on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so MWF would
work better.

This is open to anyone in robotics. I'm happy to hold classes for
mentors as well. In particular, I would like to have safety classes for
mentors.

Let me know if you are interested in either helping or attending, and
what time of day you would prefer. We did 1-3pm last year, but I'm open
to other times as well.

Regards,

Andy

[Andy Howell]

I am going to start the shop class next Monday. It will run from 3 to
5PM, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Don't worry if you can not make every
session. I know Summer is a busy time, full of conflicts!

We may make adjustments to the times as the summer progresses.

I don't have a fixed end date. We'll continue as long as there is
interest, up until school starts.

If you want to attend, you need to share this email with your parents.

My Expectations
===============

First off is safety. The machines and tools we work with are designed to
cut metal. Flesh and bone are no problem. Assume that every tool, every
machine, is out to get you. Approach them with caution and you will be
fine. Be careless and you can get hurt.

You need to look out for classmates. Make sure they do not get in harms
way. If I or anyone else, including your fellow students, tells you to
stop what you are doing, you must stop immediately.

When you are in the shop, there is no fooling around, horse play,
running etc.

If want to gab with your fiends, leave the shop area. Don't distract
your fellow students.

You will have safety glasses on at all times in the shop. If you have
long hair, male or female, it must be tied up and out of the way. We
have a supply of hair ties, but you should really bring your own.

Do not wear any jewelry. This includes rings, watches, bracelets,
necklaces etc. We don't want anything that could get caught in a machine.

For clothing, wear close fitting items. As with jewelry, loose fitting
cloths present an entanglement issue. If you have long sleeves, you will
need to roll them up.

NO OPEN TOE SHOES.

Gloves. You won't need them. For most work around machine tools they are
dangerous. If a leather glove gets caught, there is no way you will get
your hand out in time. Yes, your hand will get dirty. Thats why we have
soap!

Speaking of cleaning, at the end of every class we'll clean up. Grab a
broom. No complaining allowed!

If that all sounds scary or overly strict, that is OK. Being a little
afraid keeps you safe. Following the rules keeps you safe.

My Promise
==========

Come in with an open mind, and a good attitude and you will have fun.
You will learn skills that will make you a valuable team member in
robotics. And you'll make some neat stuff.

Parental Approval
=================

Parents, I need your approval for your student to attend. Safety in the
shop requires a level of maturity. I've never had any real behavioral
issues with students. I want to keep it that way. I'm depending on you
to judge the maturity of your child. There will be other opportunities
later on if you don't feel your student is ready.

Please email me with you approval and provide contact phone numbers and
email.

For parents that don't know me, I been with robotics going on 5 years in
the fall. Machining and general puttering around is my hobby. I'm no
expert, but I know enough to help your kids learn their way around the
shop. I've been a Scout Master, a Karate instructor, and soccer coach.
Working with the robotics students is one of the most rewarding things
I've ever done.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact
me. My cell is 512-923-9220.

Cost
====

There will be a $25 material fee. This covers the metal and other
supplies we'll use, replacement of broken drill bits, wear-and-tear on
the machines etc. Please make checks payable to Westa, NOT me!

Hope to see you Monday, June 12th.

Regards,

Andy