THE MELODIES OF MATERIALS
Materials science is at the heart of innovation, shaping the tools and technologies of our modern world. Let's dive into the intricacies behind the materials that define the music and sounds of our lives.
3/29/2025 ⋅ By Rishi Pai ⋅ 3 min read
FRC 2025 - Season Qualifications
To grow my interest and experience in materials science, one of the endeavors I enjoy the most is FRC (FIRST Robotics Competition) through my high school. My first year as a freshman in high school introduced me to robotics, and I hope to learn more and get more involved as the years come. At a new school for my 10th grade year, 2025 marks my first season as a “Techno Titan,” as a member of FRC team 1683.
This year’s game is called “ReefScape,” an ocean-based game in which robots compete with one another to score points through shooting algae (turquoise kickballs) into a raised net or hanging coral (PVC pipes) on a pronged reef. Within the months of late-April and March, me and my team have successfully competed at two qualifying events, and we are bound to compete at our district championships in just one week. The experiences were truly invaluable, and the knowledge I gained this year will set me up to be a leader for next year’s season.
On the team, I primarily work on the fabrication and electrical subteams. Trying my best to connect my love for materials science with my love for robotics, I am always analyzing and debating materials for projects throughout the season. Whether it is for our actual robot, or a side-project like a battery cart, I try my best to find the correct materials based on specifications, which is truly a highlight of my experience here for the Techno Titans. During actual competitions, I work as a core strategist for qualification and playoff matches. While I would love to engineer the robot during competitions, the responsibility is solely held for upperclassmen, which I hope to take full advantage of for the 2026 season.
The Gwinnett Qualifier (PCH District) took place in the last couple months, in which I am proud to announce that we were finalists at the end. This competition was a unique and memorable experience for me, as I was having some of the most fun of my life while also undergoing immense stress for match strategy. For the majority of the playoffs, I would watch and analyze matches and run as fast as I could down to the pit (area where robot work takes place) to meet with the rest of the strategy team. I know that my work was noticed and appreciated, and I believe that I was a great help for the team in those moments.
Ultimately, this season of qualifiers was just as enjoyable as I hoped it to be. I was thrilled to see our team make it to the finals in both of our qualifying tournaments this season, and I know that we will excel at District Championships in April. I am extremely excited to see our team play in hopes of eventually qualifying for Worlds held in Houston, Texas. FRC Robotics is the perfect place where I can connect with like-minded engineering individuals; have fun with my friends; and contribute to a team where I learn, grow, and thrive. I am eager to share my experiences at the District Championships and hopefully eventually Worlds, so until dhin . . . stay upbeat and stay tuned.