Frequently Asked Questions

Questions About Our High School Team?

What is a FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) team?
FIRST is a worldwide organization with a purpose to inspire students with science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. FRC is a varsity level sport combining an engineering challenge and managing a business with the rigorous competition of an athletic sport.
What High Schools are involved?
We are a community team based in Plainfield Township, MI. We are in the middle of 3 school districts: Rockford, Northview, and Comstock Park. Over the years we have had homeschooled students, and students from 8 area high schools. All are welcome.
Why FIRST? Why That ONE Team – Our Next Engineers?
FIRST and That ONE Team are well-rounded programs that give students hands-on, real-world skills in engineering and manufacturing as well as the soft skills needed as they enter college and the workforce. Our graduates have gone on to attend MSU, UofM, MTU, GVSU and more. They have obtained internships at Dematic, Gentex, DieBotics and Preferred Tool and Die.
Where do you meet?
We are currently based at That STEAM Space, 3516-A Plainfield Ave NE, Grand Rapids
When is the best time to join?
Spring/Early Summer, but we will still consider new students through October if there are still openings.
How much does it cost?
We never want money to be a deterrent for joining. We ask each student to offset costs through team fundraising efforts. Assistance is available for those who need it.
When do you meet?
We are involved in many activities at various times from May – September. Students who are interested in joining may participate for free during this time. It is recommended that one participates regularly (once per week on average) to be considered for a spot on the team. View our calendar and sign-up!
When is the season?
The build challenge and competition season is January-April. Expect to meet on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Competitions are 2-4 day events in March and April. We attend 4 or 5 each season.
Can I participate in the activities from May-September then not join the team?
Yes, come explore and discover what inspires you, then decide.
What if I cannot attend on a particular day during build/competition season?
You may still participate for free in the May-December off-season. Communicate your conflicts during the application and interview process. If there are still openings, you will still be considered for a spot on the team.
I am also involved in [band, sports, etc.]. Will I have time for robotics too?
Many students do robotics along with other activities. FIRST Robotics is a competitive varsity sport, not a makers club. January-April, the build/competition season, takes the same type of commitment as any other varsity sport.
What is Paradise Teams, Inc.?
Paradise Teams is the parent organization. We are a 501c3 public charity. Paradise Teams also does business as That ONE Team and facilitates FIRST teams for grades K-12. To learn more about younger grade teams, check out our teams pages.

JOIN ONE OF OUR TEAMS

Want to know more?

Interested in Joining?

Where do I start?

Explore and be inspired through STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math). Our season is in progress, we are not currently accepting any new team members but, please contact us for further details info@thatoneteam.org

A current team member will be in contact with you, welcome you, give you a tour, and introduce you to other team members and what FIRST is all about!