The Rochester High School robotics team, FEDS (Falcon Engineering and Design Solutions), has a mission to inspire students to become STEM leaders through mentoring, innovation, and collaboration. The 55 student members aim to create a world where science and technology are celebrated and young people are motivated to lead in these fields.

They participate in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) and other programs that emphasize engineering, business planning, outreach, and safety. The team sponsors 96 free feeder programs that engage students from elementary through high school, helping to build a continuous pipeline of young innovators.

FEDS is part of FIRST Robotics, a global organization that has reached more than 3.2 million people. FIRST stands for For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology. Its philosophy is that they don’t use kids to build robots—they use robots to build kids. The FEDS embrace this mindset with their motto: “Once a FED, Always a FED.” Their close-knit, family-like culture is built on inclusivity, a shared love of learning, hard work, and plenty of fun.

Operating FEDS costs about $100,000 each year. While they receive a small state grant and facility support from Rochester Community Schools, the majority of funding is raised by students and supported by alumni. These funds cover materials, travel for global competitions, marketing, and sponsor recognition.

The team also emphasizes sustainability—emotionally, physically, and environmentally. They demonstrate this commitment through projects such as a solar-powered recharging cart, free little libraries stocked with STEM-related books, and a comprehensive manual that passes their knowledge to future teams.

FEDS members meet year-round, dedicating roughly 20 hours each week to their activities. An impressive 97% of alumni go on to pursue careers in STEM fields.

Sponsorship benefits extend to a pipeline of more than 400 students, supporting one of the region’s top-performing teams for the past three years. Sponsors are recognized through social media and other forms of communication.

Each year, the team begins intensive work in March to prepare for international robotics competitions. Over the course of three months, they design and manufacture a robot that meets strict size and weight limits and can perform multiple tasks that vary annually. The process demands creativity, precision, teamwork, and perseverance—skills that last long after the competition ends.