I’m Teo Ippolito, the new lead coach of FRC Team 3881, the WHEA Sharkbots on Hawai'i Island. As a former WHEA student and Sharkbots team member, participating in FIRST Robotics Competition was one of the most impactful experiences of my life. Now, it is an honor to help provide that same opportunity to the next generation of students through hands-on, student-led robotics projects that build STEAM skills and challenge them to solve real-world problems.

Right now, we need support to reinvest in our STEM Lab and prepare our team for the 2027 FIRST Robotics Competition regional in Honolulu, Hawaii. Our recently decommissioned Mill Press and lathe need to be replaced so students have access to a safe, well-stocked maker space during build season. We also need help covering travel costs so as many students as possible can take part in this important competition experience.

Funds will help cover:

We need to secure funding by the start of March, and the equipment must be purchased by December in time for build season. This support will help us create the tools and opportunities our students need to learn, build, and compete.

I’m reaching out to the Big Island community and beyond to help make this possible. Any donation or share will directly support the Sharkbots and help more students experience the confidence, teamwork, and growth that robotics can inspire. Thank you for believing in our team.