RESOURCE LIBRARY

FIRST Technical Advisor Assistant (FTAA) Dec. 21 2023| 0 KB

Content Type: FIRST Robotics Competition, Volunteer
Program: FIRST Robotics Competition
Tags: Training, Volunteer
(18)

The FIRST Technical Advisor Assistant (FTAA) for FIRST Robotics Competition is a key volunteer position. They help keep the FIRST Robotics Competition field and event running smoothly and work in collaboration with the FIRST Technical Advisor. The position requires a high level of responsibility and can impact the quality of the event.

*Must sign a Conflict of Interest and Disclosure Statement prior to start of service.

Responsibilities

  • Implement FIRST safety standards and help manage safety for the event 
  • Provide backup to the FIRST Technical Advisor (FTA)
  • Work with volunteers to monitor wireless communications and other aspects of the event using available diagnostic tools
  • Be aware of robot connection problems that arise and be ready to quickly diagnose and assist teams to assess and fix the problems
  • Assist teams with robot technical issues on the field including but not limited to robot connection issues
  • Review the Roles and Expectations document for the FTAA
  • Participate in training opportunities offered by FIRST
  • Attend daily morning meeting if directed by the Event Manager

Experience and Skills Needed

  • FIRST experience required; Understanding of event match cycles recommended
  • Must be post-high school or equivalent
  • Minimum age: 18
    • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by the local Program Delivery Partner. 
  • Familiarity or willingness to become familiar with one or more of the following roles/areas: robot control system, field management system, field electronics and diagnostic tools. 
  • Should be ready to step in should the FTA become unavailable
  • Knowledge of the competition game and rules
  • Obtain a radio from event management office to keep aware of event information and issues, return it to office at end of day (as applicable)
  •  Strong interpersonal/communication skills
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time and move about playing field

Volunteer Time Commitment

  • Pre-event Training calls
  • Minimum 3 full day commitment (Districts)
  • Minimum 4 full day commitment (Regionals and District Championships)

Note: Event schedules vary. Please check the event schedule and talk to your Volunteer Coordinator for detailed information on when you are expected to arrive. Volunteers should arrive on site 15-20 minutes prior to the start of every shift to allow time to check in at the Volunteer Registration table.

Training

FTAA Trainer: Scott Goering and Ayla DeLaat

Training Conference Calls:

  • Dial In Information:
    • United States: +1 (646) 749-3129
    • Australia: +61 2 8355 1050
    • Brazil: +55 11 4118-4897
    • Canada: +1 (647) 497-9391
    • Israel: +972 3 376 3070
    • Mexico: +52 55 1500 3597
    • Türkiye: +90 212 900 4807
    • Onlinehttps://meet.goto.com/236370541
  • Access Code:
    • 236-370-541
  • Calls
    • February 20, 2024 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
    • February 27, 2024 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
    • March 5th, 2024 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
    • March 12th, 2024 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST

 *An invitation to join the Box.com training folder will be sent via email by the Trainer/FIRST HQ

Reporting Relationships and Supervision

  • Direct Supervision: FIRST Technical Advisor
  • On-Site Support: Volunteer Coordinator

 

* Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook.