About Us


Who are the Robohawks?

The Robohawks, or Team 2529, is the FIRST Robotics Team at Humboldt High School. The team was created in 2007 and we competed in our first FRC in 2008. Our team is small, usually under 15 students each year, so every team member is very involved in all aspects of robot-building. Our team motto is "Small Robot, Big Competition" because we don't let the size of our team stand in the way of accomplishing big goals. Aside from building robots for the FRC, the Robohawks are committed to helping our school become more sustainable by using technology. (Learn more about our goals and our team.)

What is Humboldt?

Humboldt High School is a diverse high school located in the heart of the West-Side community of St. Paul, MN (30 E Baker St. W. St Paul, MN 55107). As of 2009, Humboldt is a 7th through 12th grade school incorporating an eco-friendly, environmental theme and applying AVID (Advancement via Individual Determination) strategies in all classrooms. We are even being considered to be one of the few AVID model schools in the nation. Humboldt's motto is "Small School Connections with Big Opportunities". The school mascot is the hawk. While HumboldtHawksRobotics.com is not affiliated with Humboldt High School or the St. Paul school district, you can learn more about Humboldt through their website.

What is FIRST Robotics?

FIRST is an acronym for "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology". FIRST's mission "is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders, by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership." (Source: www.usfirst.org)

The FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) is a "varsity sport of the mind" designed to capture the interest of high-school-aged students. Every year, teams and their mentors build a robot in six weeks to solve a common problem. Teams must use a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. At the competition, teams form alliances and compete against other alliances. One team you competed against in one round could be on your alliance in the next round.

The FRC goes beyond just the nuts-and-bolts of the robot - the most important goal is to demonstrate FIRST's values of Gracious Professionalism™ and Coopertition™. Gracious Professionalism™ is "encouraging high-quality work, emphasizing the value of others, and respecting individuals and the community". Coopertition™ is about "displaying unqualified kindness and respect in the face of fierce competition. Coopertition is founded on the concept and a philosophy that teams can and should help and cooperate with each other even as they compete." (Learn more about FIRST's values)

When is the competition?

Minnesota has two regional competitions - the 10,000 Lakes Regional (Williams Arena) and the North Star Regional (Mariucci Arena). Both Minnesota regionals will take place on April 1 through April 3, 2010. Humboldt will be competing at the FIRST Minnesota North Star Regional in Mariucci Arena. Visit the Minnesota FIRST Regional site for detailed information.

How can I get involved?

To work directly with Humboldt's team, e-mail Humboldt teachers James Maclachlan or Joni Nordberg or call them at 651-293-8600. You can also make a donation or volunteer at the MN Regional events.