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This is so accurate: >> They are convinced that the American economy is at least in part fueled by this hobby and believe emphasis of electronics in education
by zeeshanm 11y ago
This is so accurate:
>> They are convinced that the American economy is at least in part fueled by this hobby and believe emphasis of electronics in education is immensely valuable.
>> This is not a new passion, in fact most began by taking things apart at a young age and have spent 35 years or more pursuing their avocation. While they haven’t always had a lot of time to pursue electronics as a hobby, they expect that it will become a larger part of their lives in the near future.
>> Hobbyists believe that this is first and foremost a hobby about creativity that transforms from an idea into something tangible. New technology and renewed devotions have given electronics hobbyists the ability to create almost anything they can dream up and yet at the end of the day there is a childish affection that succumbs to goofing around and playing with fun, blinking lights.
>> This is an old-boys club very much split between those that make their living with electronics during the day and then use it to play and those that pursue it as a pure pastime. For those who see it as a pure hobby, a large percentage are self-taught but are no less skilled nor passionate than those who have dedicated all aspects of their life to electronics.
- epalmer 11y agoOP here: I have two daughters. One builds things (robots) and one does not. But there are so few women as electronic hobbyists. FIRST Robotics is helping bring young women into the fabrication maker mentality. I just wish it could happen faster.
- ild 11y agoBuilding "robots" is a lame thing; teach her the real things: batteries, leds etc.
- epalmer 11y agoOh she does all of that. These are 120 lb robots with 100+ amp circuits. She wires up the control system board system board, uses CNC mills to fab parts (and many other tools), works with the designers to ensure that the design can be build, does on the fly diagnostics and break fix. She is getting really good experience. She also works with the programmers to ensure a smooth control system. And much more.
- gcv 11y agoThat's fantastic! If you don't mind me asking, how old is she? University student or younger?
- epalmer 11y agoRising High School Senior. FIRST robots is the program. 6 Years on the HS team (she was allowed on in Middle School). Wants to be a Mechanical Engr. with a 2nd degree in CS. Makes her Dad proud. She also is a lobbyist for disadvantaged youth for CS and STEM opportunity.