Join
No experience required. Just bring your curiosity, your drive, and your school ID.
More Than Building Robots
Being a Blacksmith means real engineering challenges, real competition, and friendships that last a lifetime.
Build a Real Robot
Design, fabricate, wire, and code a competition-ready robot from scratch in just six weeks every January.
Compete Regionally
Travel to FIRST regional and district events across New York and beyond to put your robot to the test.
College-Ready Skills
Learn CAD, programming, electrical systems, project management, and public speaking — skills colleges and employers love.
Mentorship & Community
Work alongside professional engineers, alumni, and mentors who will challenge and support you every step of the way.
Not Just Engineering
The Business, Media, and CAD sub-teams have spots for designers, filmmakers, writers, and marketing enthusiasts too.
Give Back
Demo robots at community events, mentor younger students, and help spread the love of STEM throughout Brooklyn.
Which Sub-Team Is Right For You?
Mechanical
Great for: Hands-on builders, tinkerers, anyone who loves taking things apart.
You'll learn: Machining, welding, mechanical design, power tools
Electrical
Great for: Detail-oriented students who enjoy circuits and electronics.
You'll learn: Wiring, soldering, motor controllers, sensors
Programming
Great for: Coders, logical thinkers, anyone who loves seeing code control a machine.
You'll learn: Java / Python, autonomous routines, PID control, vision processing
CAD
Great for: Precise minds who enjoy 3D modeling and engineering drawings.
You'll learn: Fusion 360, SolidWorks, engineering documentation
Business
Great for: Communicators, entrepreneurs, and future project managers.
You'll learn: Fundraising, sponsorship outreach, event planning, presentations
Media
Great for: Creatives: photographers, videographers, graphic designers, writers.
You'll learn: Photography, video editing, social media, graphic design
How to Join
Come to an Info Session
We hold info sessions at the start of each school year. Check our Events page or follow us on Facebook for dates and details.
Fill Out the Interest Form
Submit the interest form below (or pick one up in the robotics room). Tell us a bit about yourself and which sub-team interests you.
Attend Pre-Season Meetings
We run training sessions throughout the fall to teach tools, software, and teamwork before the official build season begins in January.
Survive Kickoff & Build Season
Every January, FIRST reveals the year's game. You'll have six intense weeks to design, build, and program a competition robot. It's the best six weeks of the year.
Compete!
Suit up, pack the pit, and head to your first regional competition. Nothing quite like seeing your robot perform on the field.
FAQ
Do I need prior robotics or coding experience?
Not at all. We teach everything from scratch. Many of our most valuable contributors joined with zero experience.
Is there a cost to join?
There is a participation fee to cover competition registration and supplies. Financial assistance is available — talk to us, we never want money to be a barrier.
How much time does it take?
Pre-season meetings run a few hours per week. During the six-week build season (January–February) expect evenings and some weekends. It's a big commitment, but worth every hour.
Is it open to all grades?
Yes! Freshmen through seniors are all welcome. Starting early means more time to grow — but seniors who join late still make a huge impact.
What if I want to do Media or Business, not engineering?
Perfect — those sub-teams are just as critical. A robotics team without business development and documentation doesn't survive. Every role matters.
Will I travel to competitions?
Yes. We compete at regional events (typically in NYC and surrounding areas) and potentially at the FIRST Championship if we qualify. Travel details are announced each season.
Ready to Forge Your Future?
Reach out to us and we'll get you everything you need to get started.