Our Story

As we transitioned from the Green Brick Road team into the MantaBots and began competing in the FIRST Tech Challenge, we entered a completely new and more demanding world of robotics. Unlike FLL, FTC requires teams to design and build robots using metal structures, advanced control systems, and custom-manufactured components, including 3D-printed parts. This shift dramatically increased the complexity of our work. Instead of snapping together LEGO pieces, we now carefully measure, cut, assemble, and reinforce metal components. Precision matters more than ever, and small mechanical misalignments can significantly impact performance.

Additionally, we began programming in Java, a much more advanced and flexible language than what many of us were used to in FLL. Learning Java required us to understand object-oriented programming, hardware mapping, sensor integration, and more sophisticated control systems. This steeper learning curve challenged us to think more deeply about how software and hardware interact. Debugging became more complex, but also more rewarding when we solved difficult issues through persistence and teamwork.

This year, we are tackling significantly harder challenges than ever before. Because most of us are new to FTC, we are simultaneously learning the structure of the competition while building our robot from the ground up. Each competition demands not only technical skill but also strategic thinking. We must carefully analyze game rules, design mechanisms that can perform multiple tasks efficiently, and develop match strategies that maximize our scoring potential. Time management has become a crucial skill, as we balance designing, building, programming, testing, and outreach.

The move to FTC has also introduced us to advanced technologies such as sensors, encoders, drivetrain optimization, and custom attachments tailored to specific game challenges. We now think about torque, gear ratios, center of gravity, and structural durability—concepts that push us to apply real engineering principles. Every setback, whether a mechanical failure or a coding bug, has become a learning opportunity. Instead of becoming discouraged, we analyze what went wrong, redesign, and improve.

Our experiences so far have been truly transformative. Working with real metal parts and precision components has taught us patience, accuracy, and resilience. Learning Java has strengthened our logical thinking and problem-solving skills. Perhaps most importantly, these challenges have strengthened our unity as a team. Each member of the MantaBots brings unique strengths—whether in mechanical design, programming, strategy, documentation, or outreach. By combining our talents, we approach problems from multiple perspectives and develop more creative, well-rounded solutions.

The camaraderie we have developed while overcoming obstacles together has been invaluable. Late build sessions, collaborative brainstorming meetings, and shared victories have deepened our trust in one another. We have learned that success in FTC is not just about building a high-performing robot; it is about communication, adaptability, and mutual support.

As we continue our journey in FTC, we are not only growing as engineers but also as leaders and innovators. The transition from FLL to FTC has challenged us in ways we never expected, but it has also expanded our confidence and ambition. We are proud of how far we have come—from LEGO bricks to metal frames—and we are excited to continue pushing our limits as the MantaBots.

This year, we are especially excited to mentor FASNY’s FLL team, the TechnoSharks, who compete in the FIRST LEGO League. Having once been in their position ourselves, we understand the challenges and excitement that come with designing a first robot, preparing for judging sessions, and learnin how to work effectively as a team. Through mentorship sessions, workshops, and hands-on demonstrations, we hope to guide them not only technically, but also by modeling perseverance, teamwork, and gracious professionalism.

By engaging in outreach initiatives, we aim to spark curiosity in younger students and show them that STEM fields are both accessible and exciting. Whether we are helping them debug a program, brainstorming design ideas, or simply sharing stories from our own competitions, we strive to make robotics feel inspiring rather than intimidating. We believe that when students see peers who are passionate and determined, they are more likely to imagine themselves pursuing similar paths.

Ultimately, our goal is to create a ripple effect within our community—one where enthusiasm for robotics spreads from team to team and from classroom to classroom. As the MantaBots, we are proud not only of the robots we build, but of the example we set. By combining competitive ambition with mentorship and outreach, we hope to leave a lasting impact at FASNY and encourage the next generation of innovators to explore the limitless possibilities of STEM.