The Mini-Mechanics

To further prepare Preuss's FIRST LEGO League (FLL) students to enter FIRST Robotics, Team 812 had them participate our robotics meetings. These younger students are known as the "Mini-Midnight Mechanics". They get hands-on experience with planning, strategizing, building, and programming. Each Mini-Mechanic is encouraged to intern in a specific group they have interest in, such as the arm, drive train, software, electrical, or outreach group. This specialization of interest can be built upon as a possible future profession.

During the building seasons, the Mini-Mechanics can even assist our team in the building of the robot. This allows them to gain better understanding of how enriching engineering, science, and math can be in their lives. The older Midnight Mechanics embrace them into our high school family, mentoring and encouraging their early interests in math and science. The Mini-Mechanics also have special permission to participate in special Team 812 events, such as the Robot Expo, the Team San Diego Kick-Off, and the Robot Scrimmage.