As a prestigious team that has held the world record three times in the past ten years, Huron Valley’s own Heroes of Tomorrow (HOT) Robotics team is under pressure to perform well in the upcoming season. 

MHS science teacher Lori Gleason has been a mentor to this group since 2000, and has seen the members grow both as a team and individually.

“A common misconception of the team is that in order to join you have to be a math and science wiz,” explained Junior Emma Beattie.

 In reality, that stereotype is far from the truth. “We’re an open group—interest based,” Gleason stated. “With several different groups that contribute to the final product, there is a place for everyone.”

The HOT team consists of a variety of groups that all work together to produce the final product (a robot). Coming together from Milford, Lakeland and the International Academy West, the HOT team works collectively with 45 members to maintain its elite reputation. Groups of engineers, animators, designers and marketers help to create the final product.

“Being a world class team other teams look up to us for advice and guidance,” stated Beattie proudly.

Beattie explained with much enthusiasm that, “Competitions are the time of my life; I wouldn’t trade those moments for anything! During last year’s competition, it was the first encounter I’ve had with tears of joy.” Smith is looking forward to his first competition, which will be held March 9 and 10 at Waterford Mott High School. After competing, “You just are overwhelmed with this sense of accomplishment,” said Beattie. “Working with others really opened up the door to learning more about myself.”

As a new member on the team, Senior Alex Smith has made tremendous contributions. Smith’s job consists of writing codes using two different computer languages, which tell the robot commands. 

“My job is programming the brain of the robot,” summed up Smith.

Contributing in a completely different way, Beattie is a part of the chairmen’s group which nominates mentors such as Gleason as well as GM engineers that the group works with hands on. “We are the public relations of the team and handle advertising as well as keeping up the website,” stated Beattie. “We all depend on each other,” explained Smith.

Smith’s favorite aspect of them team is that it is all about team work. “There’s no ‘I’ in team and that really proves to be true. Communication plays a key role and we all have to move around and talk with each other so we can combine ideas and help out in any way we can,” stated Smith.

While many clubs work with professionals within the building, the HOT team uses their connection to work one on one with General Motors Engineers. “It’s a really cool experience,” said Gleason. “We have the opportunity to work with a lot of intelligent people, which allows us to work hands on with their materials in the machine shops at the Proving Grounds”. “The experience is indescribable,” stated Beattie. “Being at the Proving Grounds, we get an inside look on the newest cars that no one else sees.”

 Luckily for the HOT team, GM is very generous, sponsoring them throughout competitions at which the registration fees average around $5,000. In addition, working with real world engineers on a personal level helps many of the members get their feet in the door. “Building connections is essential,” explained Gleason. “Nowadays, it’s about who you know on top of your ability.”

Many of this year’s Seniors, including Smith are taking advantage of scholarships that the robotics team provides. Smith will be attending the University of Michigan in the fall for computer engineering and programming. 

With competition season right around the corner, work can be hectic explained Beattie. Because of the prestigious reputation that the HOT team has established for itself over the years, its current members have high expectations and continue to raise the bar for their goals. “We all have a lot to live up to,” explained Smith. Gleason’s advises the members to “Take advantage of mentors, they pass on a lot of information that you can’t learn from books.”

Although Smith regrets not joining earlier, he’s proud to be a part of the team this year and recommends that others should step up to the challenge.  “If you’re even considering being a part of the team, you should definitely join. It will change your life and is the most rewarding experience,” said Beattie.

For more information about the HOT team, check out the team website: http://frcteam67.dyndns.org/hot67.html 

2012 Schedule

 Feb 21-Mar 8 Drive Team/Pit Crew Practice

 Mar 9-10 Waterford District FRC Event 
(at Waterford Mott HS) 

Mar 30-31 Troy District FRC Event 
(at Troy Athens HS)

April 12-14 Michigan Region Robotics Championship 
(at Eastern Michigan University)

 April 25-April 28 FIRST World Championship Robotics Competition 
(at EJ Dome St Louis MO)