RESOURCE LIBRARY

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
• Check with event management for specific event/on-site communication expectations. This may or may not include an event radio
• Volunteers should only congregate around the scoring table or playing field as is necessary to fulfill the duties of their volunteer position
• No one in official event apparel (volunteer shirt or FIRST/Partner staff clothing) around the playing field should be openly cheering for one team

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
•  Strong interpersonal/communication skills
• Ability to stand for long periods of time and move about playing field

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: Ayla DeLaat and Bryan Herbst

Training Conference Calls:

Dial In Information:

• US Dial-In Number: +1 603-250-6811
• Alternative Dial-In Numbers: Conference Dial-In Numbers
• Online: Join the FTAA Conference Calls

​Access Code:

• 988 181 889#

Calls: 

• February 18th at 9pm - 10pm ET
• February 25th at 9pm - 10pm ET
• March 4th at 9pm - 10pm ET
• March 11th at 9pm - 10pm ET

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

Reporting Relationships and Supervision

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

* Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook.