Why is your team nickname the Flaming Chickens?: We tossed around a few ideas and really liked the name, and besides, this way Maggie gets to wear a chicken suit! You can see our Flaming Chicken if you come to a competition!

Why are the robots named as they are?: We chose the name of our competition robot, "Fowler," named for a character in the movie "Chicken Run," to continue our chicken-related naming theme. Our 2006 competition robot was called "Free Ranger" in general respect to our friendly organic chicken, and also out of pure glee. Our 2005 robot was named "Rocky," also after a character from "Chicken Run."

How long does it take to build a robot?: For the competition we only have 6 weeks to design, build, and fix our robot. However, in the off season we usually take 3 or 4 weeks to build a general-purpose robot.

How large are these robots?: Robot size varies depending on the competition guidelines. Please visit the "Our Robots" page for more detail about this year's robot.

What does this year's team 1540 robot do?: This year (2007) our robot can pick up balls from the ground, then store and shoot those balls, and most amazingly it can aim and shoot by itself by using camera. Drop by Our Robots page for more information.

How many people work on the robot?: During the competition season, everyone in the team contributes to designing and building the robot. In the beginning of the season we all sit down and brainstorm about the general design of the robot. Then once our design is decided on we split up into our different departments (for a list of all our departments and their purpose go to our Departments section), and start working on the robot.

What aspects of the robot is student designed?: We proudly say that our robots are all student designed. We may seek the mentors for advice and help, but all design decisions are discussed and decided by the students.

How do I contact the Catlin Gabel Robotics Society?: All of our contact information is at Contact Us section of our website.

How do I become a volunteer for the Flaming Chickens?: Please contact our Head Coach, Dale Yocum for more information.

How do I become a sponsor for the Catlin Gabel Robotics Society?: We would love you to help sponsor our program. Please contact our head coach, Dale Yocum for specifics.

What is FIRST?: To find out more about first we invite to visit our FIRST Competition section or you can go directly to the FIRST website .

What is this year's competition?: It hasn't been announced yet! :)