Beth Markel

Years on Team: 5

Sub-Teams: Craft Services

What are 2 fun facts about you?

I learned to water ski in the Ohio River.
I’ve made quilts that have hung all over the world.

Why did you join the Adambots?

Our son, Drew, got us started.  Now he is a sophomore at Michigan Tech, studying Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering.  I stayed on as a Mentor because I think these are some of the smartest kids around, the competitions are phenomenal, and it’s a great learning experience for the Team.

What is your favorite memory from robotics?

Anytime somebody starts with…”It’s impossible” or “We can’t do that” and see how the team works together to make that problem…”Solved.”  Watching kids eyes light up as a whole world opens up to them.

What have you learned from being on the team?

Teamwork matters and everybody needs respect.

What is special about FIRST?

FIRST is special because of the attitude of everyone involved. There is great teamwork necessary to build a robot, and it’s great fun to see the teens grow from year to year, especially when they start out tentatively, and not really knowing what they are doing.  When they master difficult tasks, it’s amazing to see how their confidence grows – and confidence in their own abilities will open many doors for them down the road, whether it’s college or a job.