Stayed tuned for updates on the 2024 Kickoff!
On Saturday,
January 7th, 2023,
after months of
anticipation and hard
work, over 30
different teams
gathered in
Skillman, New Jersey
at Montgomery
High School for the
17th annual Skillman
Kickoff event,
officially beginning
the Build Season
Prior to the Kickoff broadcast each year, students and mentors have the opportunity to attend workshops held by different mentors and Team 1403 members to learn about different aspects of robotics. The workshop topics include robot design using Autodesk Inventor, linear motion with pneumatics & sensors, gearboxes & power transmissions, bumpers, autonomous programming via our Cougar Script Editor, and Women in STEM. These workshops help teach members of FIRST how to accomplish certain tasks that are crucial to the success of their teams. After all the workshops are concluded, teams gather in the school’s multi-performing arts center together for the revealing of the new season’s challenge. During the stream, a number of speakers give inspirational speeches to the FIRST community, applauding FIRST robotics as well as teaching important life skills such as dedication and teamwork.
The Kickoff event officially marks the beginning of the 6-week Build Season for Team 1403. During Build Season, all members work together to prepare for competition and create a successful final product.
Autodesk Inventor Packets and Parts
Beginner Packet
Advanced Packet