We foster dynamic student leaders with a blend of technical and key soft skills. We build people by building robots. In the fall, we have structured training and student-led off-season projects in each four subteams, through which our students prepare for the intense build season. During the build season, we make sure to foster an inclusive culture that encourages learning and growth.

Every January, FIRST releases a new game challenge along with a kit of parts. Once the challenge is announced, our subteams begin designing and building a robot to compete in that season’s game.

Team 1038 is made up of four subteams. New and returning students are encouraged to explore each one to see how they work together and find where their skills and interests fit best.

Controls Subteam

The Controls team brings the robot to life by writing Java code for both autonomous and driver-controlled operation. They also manage wiring and pneumatic systems, ensuring the robot’s hardware and software work seamlessly together.

Students begin with eight hours of Java instruction through Code Academy before advancing into hands-on training in programming, wiring, and pneumatics. They complete an in-house challenge that progresses through three levels—from simple to complex Java tasks—building confidence and reinforcing core concepts. This structured path prepares students to design reliable control systems, follow professional engineering practices, and collaborate with mentors to integrate code and hardware into a competition-ready robot.

Computer Aided Design (CAD) Subteam

The CAD team designs the robot’s mechanical systems using OnShape. Their digital models serve as blueprints for fabrication, ensuring all parts fit together correctly. They also create assembly guides and collaborate with professional engineers to improve performance and reliability.

Students complete a structured eight-hour training program in OnShape, building a strong foundation in digital design. They expand these skills by applying math, physics, and engineering concepts while producing detailed assemblies and technical documentation, preparing them for real-world engineering collaboration.

Media & Marketing (M&M) Subteam

The Media & Marketing team shares the story of Lakota Robotics. They document the season through photography and videography, manage social media, update sponsors, and cover events—highlighting the teamwork, creativity, and progress of Team 1038.

Students complete five training modules covering graphic design, photography, videography, social media, marketing, and professional writing. They develop creative and technical skills using tools such as Affinity Designer, Canva, Premiere Pro, and Final Cut Pro. Hands-on projects with GoPro cameras and gimbals teach composition, motion, and storytelling. By the end of training, students can plan, create, and publish professional-quality media that represents Team 1038 with clarity and creativity.

Mechanical Subteam

Mechanical students design, build, and troubleshoot the robot, gaining hands-on experience while learning teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability.

Through guided training, students learn how ideas become reality by building the robot’s structure and mechanisms. They gain experience using tools such as the drill press, lathe, belt sander, and rivet gun, with a strong emphasis on safety. Mentors guide students through fabrication, assembly, and troubleshooting, teaching precision, collaboration, and responsibility in the shop.

Partnership and Leadership

For 1038 to fulfill our mission we must form a partnership between mentors and students. Partnership means that each partner recognizes and respects the roles of the other(s). We use the term team to refer to the organization; like a sports team, our success will depend upon individual performance. Like a sports team, our success requires that each individual perform their assigned responsibility and trust that their team members perform their respective responsibilities.