Key Volunteer Requirements

In order to reserve a competition field for an off-season event, FIRST in Michigan (FIM) requires each event to provide one NEW volunteer for both the "Field Supervisor Trainee", and the "FIRST Technical Advisor Assistant (FTAA)" roles, until these are filled, we are unable to reserve a playing field for our event. Additionally, volunteers for these roles are asked to commit to volunteering for the same role during at least one event during the following season.

If you or someone you know is able and willing to help us fill these roles, please sign up on our volunteer registration page ASAP!

Here's some more information about the roles:
Field Supervisor Trainee: (Still Needed! Please Sign Up!)

Expected Time Commitment - Thursday Afternoon (Setup), Friday Evening (Setup+Practice), Saturday All-Day (Competition + Field Teardown)

Description - Field Supervisor for FIRST Robotics Competition is a key volunteer position. They supervise field assembly and disassembly in collaboration with the FIRST Technical Advisor (FTA). This is a critical role in the competition as they direct activity on the field to ensure efficient execution of the matches, maintain the pace of the event, and smooth flow of match play. Field Supervisors work in collaboration with the FIRST Technical Advisors who provide support and advice during the event. Field Supervisors also lead the Field Resetters.

Responsibilities - 
  • Implement FIRST safety standards and help manage safety for the event 
  • Participate in pre-event trainings provided by FIRST
  • Review the Roles and Expectations document for the Field Supervisor
  • Review and understand all game and field documents provided for the Field Supervisor
  • Supervise field constructions (including practice field) in collaboration with the FIRST Technical Advisor (FTA)
  • Lead Field Resetters; Direct field reset process and manage field repairs
  • Facilitate adherence to match timing
  • Monitor placement of robots on field
  • Promote and monitor the safety of volunteers and team members
  • Collaborate with the Lead Queuer, Game Announcer, Emcee, FIRST Technical Advisor Assistant (FTAA), and FTA to monitor and set/adjust game pace
  • Conduct volunteer training for and supervise Field Assembly/Disassembly and Field Resetters at event
  • Check with event management for specific event/on-site communication expectations. This may or may not include an event radio 
  • Attend the daily morning meeting if directed by Event Manager
  • 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 including an understanding of event match cycles
  • Team experience preferred but not required; Team match participation ideal
  • 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.
  • Knowledge of the competition game and rules
  • Mechanical/Technical experience ideal
  • Strong leadership skills
  • Strong interpersonal/communication skills
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time and move about playing field
FIRST Technical Advisor Assistant (FTAA): (Roll filled, please consider again next year!)

Expected Time Commitment - Thursday Afternoon (Setup), Friday Afternoon (Setup+Practice), Saturday All-Day (Competition + Field Teardown)

Description - 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.

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