14.2   Machine Shops

Some events host a machine shop, open during specific hours (see the event’s agenda), to help teams with repair and fabrication of their ROBOT. Machine shops are typically sponsored by NASA or local organizations. While the machine shops vary, FIRST strives to have welding and a variety of high-powered tools available at all events.

In most cases, the machine shop is on site and readily accessible to all teams. If a team attends an event where the Machine Shop is off-site, volunteers are in place to transport the ROBOT or parts to and from the machine shop. In this case, a team fills out a Machine Shop Request Form that travels with the ROBOT or parts, so the machine shop staff and volunteers can follow their directions. The event should set up a method of communication between the venue and off-site machine shop in case there are any questions.