Team Roles
Summary
Builder – Design, build, and maintain the robot based on game strategy, rules, and design plans—ensuring it performs reliably during matches.
Designer – Create, plan, and iterate the robot’s design to meet game objectives, ensuring it follows the rules, performs well, and is mechanically sound.
CAD Modeler – Design and simulate the robot in CAD software to visualize, test, and refine the robot’s structure before and during the building process.
Programmer – Write, test, and refine code that controls the robot during both the Autonomous Period and Driver-Controlled Period, ensuring smooth operation, sensor integration, and task execution.
Notebook Manager – Organize, write, and maintain a clear and complete Engineering Notebook that documents the team’s journey, decisions, and problem-solving process throughout the season.
Driver – Operate the robot using a remote controller during the driver-control period of a match. Execute the team's game strategy in real time, adapting to opponents and field conditions.
Drive Coach – Serve as team's strategist and motivator during a match. Help the drivers stay focused, follow strategy, and make smart decisions under pressure.
Scouter – Collect, analyze, and share data on other teams' robots and match performance to help your team make smart strategic decisions and alliance selections.
Pit Crew – Ensure the robot is always competition-ready by handling repairs, part swaps, inspections, and performance checks between matches—quickly and efficiently.
Media Manager – Capture, create, and share content that documents the team’s activities, promotes the team to the public, and supports outreach, branding, and awards like the Team or Excellence Award.
Snack Manager– Provide and manage snacks, drinks, and meal planning for team meetings, work sessions, and competitions—making sure the team stays fueled, hydrated, and happy.
Videographer/Photographer – Capture high-quality photos and videos that document the team’s progress, promote its brand, and support awards, outreach, and social media.
Builder
The Builder in a VEX Robotics team is the one who brings the team's robot to life. They're responsible for turning design ideas into a fully functional, competition-ready robot. Think of them as the team's engineer and technician combined.
Main Role
Design, build, and maintain the robot based on game strategy, rules, and design plans—ensuring it performs reliably during matches.
Key Responsibilities
1. Robot Construction
Assemble the robot using VEX parts (metal, gears, motors, sensors, etc.).
Follow the design closely (if working with a dedicated designer) or collaborate in design decisions.
Mount motors, mechanisms, wiring, and structural components securely and cleanly.
2. Prototyping & Testing
Build and test different mechanisms (e.g., intakes, lifts, drivetrains) before finalizing.
Help evaluate which designs work best based on testing results.
3. Robot Maintenance
Perform regular checks for loose screws, worn parts, or damage.
Repair and upgrade the robot as needed between matches or during practice.
4. Collaborating with Other Roles
Work closely with:
Designers to bring plans to life accurately
Programmers to make sure sensors and motors are set up properly
Drivers to adjust the robot based on how it feels during control
Make mechanical changes based on match performance and driver feedback.
5. Documentation
Keep a build log (photos, notes, iterations) for the engineering notebook.
Explain build decisions in judges' interviews or notebook entries.
6. Understanding the Game Rules
Know size limits, part restrictions, and expansion rules to ensure the robot is legal.
Ensure the build complies with VEX competition constraints (e.g., <18" size limit, legal wiring).
Qualities of a Good Builder
Hands-on, detail-oriented, and patient
Good at using tools and familiar with VEX hardware
Willing to iterate and problem-solve when things don’t work
Communicative and a team player
Quick at making smart repairs between matches
Specialized Builder Roles
Chassis Builder – focuses on drivetrain and structure
Mechanism Builder – works on arms, lifts, intakes
Pit Crew – handles quick maintenance during events
The Builder is a core piece of the team puzzle—without them, there’s no robot to code or drive!
Designer
The Designer in a VEX Robotics team is the creative architect behind the robot. They’re responsible for turning game strategies into solid, functional plans—and guiding the robot's overall development from concept to reality.
Main Role
Create, plan, and iterate the robot’s design to meet game objectives, ensuring it follows the rules, performs well, and is mechanically sound.
Key Responsibilities
1. Robot Concept and Design
Analyze the current year’s game challenge and come up with strategic robot ideas.
Sketch or digitally model the robot’s layout (e.g., drivetrain, scoring mechanisms, endgame tools).
Choose which mechanisms and features to prioritize (e.g., intake, shooter, lift, expansion).
Think about robot dimensions, weight, balance, and rule compliance.
2. Prototyping Support
Work with builders to test and refine early-stage prototypes.
Provide design ideas to test and improve mechanisms before full builds.
Iterate designs based on real-world testing and driver feedback.
3. Design Documentation
Keep detailed notes, sketches, photos, and explanations of each version of the robot.
Record the design process for the Engineering Notebook, including problem-solving and iteration.
Prepare for and contribute to the Judges’ Interview, explaining design decisions and strategy.
4. Rules Compliance
Make sure the design follows VEX game rules (size limits, allowed parts, etc.).
Adjust designs to avoid common penalties (e.g., illegal expansion, entanglement risks).
5. Collaboration
Work closely with:
Builders, to make sure designs are feasible and buildable
Programmers, to ensure room for sensors and correct motor placement
Drivers, to make sure the robot suits match strategy and control comfort
Qualities of a Good Designer
Creative and strategic thinker
Strong problem-solving skills
Detail-oriented and organized
Familiar with VEX parts and mechanisms
Good communicator and team collaborator
Tools Designers Might Use
Hand-drawn sketches for early concepts
CAD software (like Autodesk Fusion 360 or Onshape) for advanced modeling
Game manual and rule book for constant reference
A strong designer helps the team win before the match even starts—by making sure the robot is built for success.
CAD Modeler
The CAD Modeler on a VEX Robotics team is the one who brings ideas to life before anything is built physically. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create precise 3D models of the robot and its components, helping the team plan smarter and avoid costly mistakes.
Main Role
Design and simulate the robot in CAD software to visualize, test, and refine the robot’s structure before and during the building process.
Key Responsibilities
1. Design Robot Models
Create detailed 3D models of the entire robot or specific subsystems (drivebase, intake, launcher, lift, etc.).
Make iterative updates as the design evolves throughout the season.
2. Plan the Build Process
Help the builders by creating assembly instructions, exploded views, and part lists.
Ensure all parts fit together virtually before committing to a physical build.
3. Test and Optimize Designs
Simulate movements or clearances (e.g., arm rotation, tray extension, wheel spacing).
Identify and fix design flaws before they become real-world problems.
4. Collaboration
Work closely with the Designer, Builders, and Programmers to align designs with functionality and strategy.
Communicate design choices clearly with the team.
5. Engineering Notebook & Judging
Provide labeled screenshots, renderings, and diagrams for the Engineering Notebook and judging presentations.
Document design evolution, alternate concepts, and why choices were made.
6. Parts Management
Track which VEX parts are used in the CAD model.
Ensure all modeled parts are legal and available in the team’s inventory.
Qualities of a Great CAD Modeler
Detail-oriented and patient
Strong spatial reasoning and visual thinking
Skilled with CAD software (and willing to learn fast!)
Good communicator and team collaborator
Creative problem solver
Tools CAD Modelers Might Use
Fusion 360 (most popular in VEX)
Onshape (cloud-based, great for collaboration)
SolidWorks (more advanced, used in industry)
STEP files and VEX parts libraries from the VEX CAD Library
Modeling your robot in CAD before you build can save hours of troubleshooting, help with cleaner wiring and structure, and impress judges big time.
The CAD Modeler is the architect of the robot—translating rough ideas into precise digital blueprints.
Programmer
The Programmer in a VEX Robotics team is the one who brings the robot to life through code. They turn the robot’s hardware—motors, sensors, and mechanisms—into a smart, responsive machine that can perform tasks autonomously and with precision during matches.
Main Role
Write, test, and refine code that controls the robot during both the Autonomous Period and Driver-Controlled Period, ensuring smooth operation, sensor integration, and task execution.
Key Responsibilities
1. Autonomous Programming
Write code for the autonomous period (usually 15 seconds at the start of a match).
Use sensors (e.g., gyro, encoders, line trackers, distance sensors) to guide the robot without human input.
Optimize routines to score points consistently and work well with alliance partners.
2. Driver-Control Enhancements
Program button mappings and joystick controls for the drive team.
Add smart control features like:
Toggle buttons
Automatic alignment
Speed modes
Position-holding mechanisms (e.g., PID loops)
3. Sensor Integration
Calibrate and use sensors to improve robot precision and feedback.
Create routines that adjust behavior based on sensor input (e.g., stop when ball is loaded, align to walls, etc.).
4. Debugging and Troubleshooting
Test and refine code continuously.
Diagnose problems quickly and make fixes during practice or competitions.
Work with builders and drivers to isolate hardware vs software issues.
5. Documentation
Keep organized and readable code with comments.
Document programming processes and decision-making for the Engineering Notebook and Judges’ Interview.
Optionally contribute code snippets or flowcharts to the notebook.
6. Collaboration
Work closely with:
Builders, to understand motor/sensor setup
Drivers, to customize controls for comfort and efficiency
Designers, to plan sensor placement and wiring
Coordinate with the team to update code as the robot evolves.
Qualities of a Good Programmer
Logical and analytical thinker
Patient and detail-oriented
Skilled at problem-solving and debugging
Familiar with VEX coding platforms (VEXcode, VScode, etc.)
Strong communicator and good at translating team needs into code
Tools Programmers Use
VEXcode V5 (Blocks or Text) – beginner-friendly, officially supported
VEXcode Pro V5 – C++-based, more advanced
VScode – advanced open-source environment (C/C++)
Sensors and devices – inertial, rotation, distance, vision, GPS (for VEX AI)
Programmer’s Workflow
Understand robot and game strategy
Code autonomous and driver-control functions
Test, debug, and optimize
Adjust based on feedback and performance
Document and update as robot changes
The programmer is the brain behind the bot—responsible for making sure it thinks, moves, and acts exactly how the team needs it to.
Notebook Manager
The Notebook Manager (also called the Engineer/Documentation Lead) plays a crucial role in a VEX Robotics team by managing the Engineering Notebook—a key component for awards and judging at competitions. This person is responsible for documenting the entire design process, from brainstorming to final testing.
Main Role
Organize, write, and maintain a clear and complete Engineering Notebook that documents the team’s journey, decisions, and problem-solving process throughout the season.
Key Responsibilities
1. Document the Engineering Design Process
Record each phase of the engineering design cycle:
Identify the problem
Brainstorm solutions
Develop designs
Build and test
Analyze and iterate
Include entries for autonomous coding, driver practice, strategy planning, and competition performance.
2. Daily or Weekly Logs
Keep regular updates on team meetings, goals, tasks completed, and decisions made.
Ensure entries are dated, labeled, and written in a clear, organized format.
3. Include Team Roles and Contributions
Note who did what and when (builder, coder, driver, etc.).
Show collaboration across the team.
4. Photos, Sketches, and Diagrams
Add drawings, CAD designs, and photos of the robot’s progression.
Include flowcharts, code snippets, or sensor maps if relevant.
5. Judging Prep
Ensure the notebook is ready for Design Award and Excellence Award consideration.
Help the team prepare for the judges' interview, using the notebook as a guide.
Be ready to explain how the team documented challenges and improvements.
6. Organization and Neatness
Keep the notebook easy to follow, neat, and professional.
Make sure entries are in chronological order and reflect real-time progress (not backfilled).
Include a table of contents, team intro, and game overview at the beginning.
Qualities of a Good Notebook Manager
Organized and consistent
Strong writing and communication skills
Detail-oriented and accurate
Familiar with the team’s full process (even if not directly building or coding)
Good at asking questions and gathering info from teammates
Tools Used
Physical Notebook – handwritten, bound book (preferred by VEX judges)
Digital Notebook – typed (allowed if formatted properly)
Photos, sketches, CAD renders, graphs, timelines
A strong notebook can help a team win awards, qualify for states/worlds, and stand out to judges. It’s also a great way to reflect on progress and improve as a team.
Driver
The driver plays a critical role during the match gameplay. The driver's main job is to control the robot during the driver-controlled portion of the match, making real-time decisions based on the game strategy.
Main Role
Operate the robot using a remote controller during the driver-control period of a match. Execute the team's game strategy in real time, adapting to opponents and field conditions. Coordinate with teammates (especially in team alliances) to maximize points and minimize penalties.
Key Responsibilities
Robot Control & Navigation
Drive the robot smoothly and efficiently across the field.
Operate mechanisms such as arms, intakes, lifts, or claws as needed for game tasks.
Strategy Execution
Follow pre-determined strategies or adjust them based on match developments.
Prioritize tasks like scoring, defending, or endgame actions based on timing.
Communication
Stay in constant communication with co-drivers (if applicable) and coaches.
Alert team members about issues or changes in the field situation.
Rule Awareness
Understand match rules and avoid actions that result in penalties (e.g., pinning, illegal expansion).
Know how to handle unexpected events within legal limits (e.g., robot stuck or malfunctioning).
Field Awareness
Monitor not just your robot, but also other teams' robots and scoring objects on the field.
Stay aware of the match timer and adjust actions as time winds down.
Calm Under Pressure
Keep cool in high-stress moments and make split-second decisions confidently.
Recover quickly from mistakes or unexpected robot behavior.
If you're thinking about becoming a driver or coaching one, it helps to practice under match-like conditions, study game rules deeply, and develop a strong communication rhythm with your team.
Drive Coach
The Drive Coach plays a vital behind-the-scenes and on-field support role. While they don’t physically control the robot, they guide and support the drivers to help the team perform at its best.
Main Role
The drive coach is like the team's strategist and motivator during a match. They help the drivers stay focused, follow strategy, and make smart decisions under pressure.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Guidance
Help plan match strategy before the round, including:
Scoring priorities
Alliance coordination
Defensive or offensive plays
Make in-the-moment strategy adjustments based on the game situation.
2. Communication Hub
Maintain calm and clear communication with both drivers during the match.
Relay time warnings, key observations (e.g., an opponent’s robot is disabled), and changes in the game state.
If in an alliance match, communicate/cooperate with alliance partners pre-match and during gameplay.
3. Time Management
Keep track of match time and remind drivers about timing for key actions (e.g., “30 seconds left – time to head to endgame!”).
4. Rules Awareness
Ensure the team stays within the rules during gameplay.
Warn drivers of potential rule violations (e.g., pinning time limits, expansion limits).
5. Encouragement and Focus
Keep drivers calm, focused, and motivated—especially during stressful or chaotic moments.
Help the team bounce back from mistakes during a match.
6. Preparation and Debrief
Before the match: Review the match plan and walk through scenarios with the team.
After the match: Help analyze what went well and what could be improved for next time.
The Drive Coach is the team's eyes, mind, and voice of reason during a match—while the drivers are the hands. A good coach keeps the whole team aligned, strategic, and focused.
Scouting Team
In VEX Robotics, the Scouting Team plays a critical behind-the-scenes role—especially at larger tournaments where alliances and match strategy can make the difference between winning and going home early.
Main Role
Collect, analyze, and share data on other teams' robots and match performance to help your team make smart strategic decisions and alliance selections.
Key Responsibilities
1. Pre-Match Scouting
Watch other teams' matches and take notes on:
Autonomous performance
Drive speed and control
Scoring ability and accuracy
Endgame mechanisms
Defense/strategy style
Reliability or mechanical issues
2. Data Collection & Organization
Create and fill out scouting sheets, spreadsheets, or apps with:
Team numbers
Strengths and weaknesses
Autonomous routes
Match outcomes and stats
Keep all info updated throughout the tournament.
3. Alliance Selection Support
Provide the drive coach or team captain with ranked lists of ideal alliance partners based on:
Performance data
How well they complement your robot
Compatibility in strategy and play style
Suggest which teams to avoid as partners or opponents.
4. Strategy Planning
Work with the drive team and coach to:
Plan match strategies based on opponent analysis
Adjust autonomous routines or tactics
Identify patterns in other teams’ gameplay
5. Communication & Presentation
Share findings clearly and quickly with the rest of the team.
Be ready to back up alliance decisions with real data.
What Scouts Look For
Scoring consistency
Drive skill & speed
Unique mechanisms (e.g., expansion, defense tools)
Autonomous success
Match adaptability
Mechanical reliability
Qualities of a Great Scout
Observant and detail-oriented
Organized and good with data
Fast at taking notes during matches
Strategic thinker
Good communicator and team player
Tools Scouts Might Use
Printed scouting sheets
Laptops/tablets with Google Sheets or Excel
Team info databases (like VEX Via or Tournament Manager)
Match schedules and pit maps
A strong scouting team helps your drive team win matches and your captain make smart alliances.
Pit Crew
In VEX Robotics, the Pit Crew is the team’s rapid-response unit—responsible for keeping the robot in top shape during competitions. They handle quick repairs, adjustments, and maintenance between matches, often under pressure and tight time constraints.
Main Role
Ensure the robot is always competition-ready by handling repairs, part swaps, inspections, and performance checks between matches—quickly and efficiently.
Key Responsibilities
1. Pre-Match Prep
Inspect the robot before each match:
Check screws, nuts, and shafts for looseness
Make sure motors and wires are securely connected
Charge batteries and make sure firmware is up to date
Confirm the robot meets size and weight regulations
2. Post-Match Repairs
Diagnose and fix any damage or issues that happened during the last match
Replace broken parts (e.g., gears, axles, standoffs) quickly
Re-tighten or adjust mechanisms that shifted out of place
3. Quick Turnaround Time
Handle high-pressure fixes between back-to-back matches
Prioritize speed and efficiency without sacrificing build quality
4. Tool & Part Management
Keep the pit area clean and organized
Know where every tool and spare part is for rapid access
Maintain an inventory of common spare parts (e.g., motors, screws, zip ties)
5. Support Other Subteams
Work with builders, programmers, and drivers to understand issues
Help test systems after fixes to confirm functionality
6. Competition Readiness
Ensure the robot passes inspections before the tournament and after major modifications
Be prepared for judge visits to the pit area and explain the robot’s systems if asked
Qualities of a Good Pit Crew Member
Calm under pressure
Mechanically skilled and fast with tools
Detail-oriented and good at spotting issues quickly
Organized and efficient
Great communicator and team player
Typical Pit Crew Tools & Supplies
Allen keys, wrenches, screwdrivers
Extra motors, sensors, gears, wheels
Zip ties, rubber bands, anti-slip mat
Spare batteries and chargers
VEX size box or measuring tools
The Pit Crew might not always be on the field—but they’re the reason the robot gets there, ready to perform.
Media Manager
The Media Manager on a VEX Robotics team is the creative storyteller and brand builder. Their job is to showcase the team’s journey, celebrate achievements, and help the team stand out—both online and at competitions.
Main Role
Capture, create, and share content that documents the team’s activities, promotes the team to the public, and supports outreach, branding, and awards like the Team or Excellence Award.
Key Responsibilities
1. Content Creation
Take photos and videos of team meetings, robot builds, practices, and competitions.
Create highlight reels, progress updates, or behind-the-scenes clips.
Make posters, infographics, and team visuals for presentations or pit displays.
2. Social Media Management
Manage platforms like Instagram, Twitter/X, YouTube, TikTok, or a team website.
Post regularly about:
Robot progress
Competition results
Team member highlights
Outreach events or STEM education efforts
Engage with other teams, mentors, and VEX community pages.
3. Outreach & Branding
Help create media for STEM outreach events, school presentations, and community involvement.
Design and maintain team logos, color schemes, and a consistent visual identity.
Assist with award submissions that include visual components (e.g., video interviews, flyers).
4. Support for Judging
Help prepare photo books, team posters, or media-driven presentations that can be shown in the pit or used during the judging interview.
Contribute to the Engineering Notebook by supplying labeled photos or visuals of builds and events.
5. Documentation Archive
Organize and archive all media—videos, photos, digital files—so they can be reused or included in presentations and portfolios.
Qualities of a Good Media Manager
Creative and tech-savvy
Good eye for design, storytelling, and composition
Skilled in photography, video editing, or graphic design
Organized and detail-oriented
Strong communication and writing skills
Tools Media Managers Might Use
Camera or smartphone with good quality
Editing software (e.g., Canva, CapCut, iMovie, Photoshop, Premiere)
Google Drive or cloud storage for organization
Social media platforms and scheduling tools
The Media Manager is the team's creative voice—turning all the hard work into content that inspires, informs, and impresses.
Snack Manager
The Snack Manager, also lovingly called the Snack Captain, Food Boss, or even the Fuel Chief . While it might sound silly at first, the Snack Manager is crucial for keeping morale high and energy up—especially during long build sessions or all-day competitions.
Main Role
Provide and manage snacks, drinks, and meal planning for team meetings, work sessions, and competitions—making sure the team stays fueled, hydrated, and happy.
Key Responsibilities
1. Bring the Snacks!
Organize a variety of snacks and drinks that work for the whole team (sweet, salty, healthy, etc.).
Coordinate with teammates or parents to bring items if needed.
Stock the snack bin at meetings or during competition prep.
2. Plan for Competitions
Create a plan for breakfast, lunch, and snacks during tournaments:
What to bring?
Who’s bringing what?
When and where will the team eat?
Make sure any dietary restrictions or allergies are respected.
3. Keep Things Clean & Organized
Maintain a clean and organized snack area or box.
Bring trash bags, napkins, hand sanitizer, etc.
Help clean up after meals or snack breaks.
4. Keep the Team Energized
Hand out snacks during breaks or when people are getting tired.
Offer water, sports drinks, or light snacks to help the team focus during crunch time.
Keep spirits high with surprise treats or themed snacks on special days!
5. Support Team Bonding
Use snack time as a way to bring the team together, especially during stressful moments.
Organize occasional fun snack events like “build-and-bagel day” or a pizza night after a big deadline.
Qualities of a Great Snack Manager
Thoughtful and reliable
Organized and proactive
A good team spirit and morale booster
Budget-aware (if needed)
Can lowkey detect when people are “hangry”
Snack Ideas for a VEX Team
Quick Snacks: Granola bars, trail mix, pretzels, crackers, fruit snacks
Healthy Options: Bananas, apples, nuts, yogurt tubes, cut veggies
Hydration: Water bottles, Gatorade, juice boxes
Treats: Cookies, brownies, candy (sparingly!)
Competition Fuel: Sandwiches, wraps, chips, protein bars
The Snack Manager may not touch the robot, but they keep the people who build and drive it running smoothly. A well-fed team is a focused team .
Videographer/Photographer
The Videographer/Photographer on a VEX Robotics team is the visual storyteller—capturing all the action, emotion, and hard work that happens throughout the season. Whether it’s snapping robot build progress or filming a hype competition montage, this role is all about preserving memories and showcasing the team's journey.
Main Role
Capture high-quality photos and videos that document the team’s progress, promote its brand, and support awards, outreach, and social media.
Key Responsibilities
1. Document the Season
Take regular photos and videos during:
Build sessions
Programming and testing
Team meetings
Competitions and pit setups
Outreach or fundraising events
Capture both robot-focused shots and team member interactions.
2. Create Visual Content
Edit photos and videos into:
Highlight reels
Build logs
Social media posts
Team intro or promo videos
Provide visuals for presentations, engineering notebooks, or award submissions.
3. Support Media Manager
Work closely with the Media Manager to align on content goals, branding, and posting schedules.
Provide raw and edited footage for Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, etc.
4. Contribute to Judging Materials
Provide high-quality, labeled photos of robot components or mechanisms for the Engineering Notebook.
Help prepare any visual elements for the judges’ interview or team displays.
5. Competition Day Coverage
Get action shots during matches, pit repairs, team huddles, and awards ceremonies.
Capture behind-the-scenes moments that highlight the team dynamic and spirit.
Qualities of a Great Videographer/Photographer
Creative eye and good timing
Basic photography/video editing skills
Familiar with lighting, focus, and framing
Organized and good at managing files
Team-oriented and always ready to capture a moment
Tools You Might Use
DSLR camera or phone with a good camera
Tripod or stabilizer for video
Editing software (e.g., iMovie, Premiere, CapCut, DaVinci Resolve)
Google Drive or cloud storage for media organization
Canva or Photoshop for stills and graphics
Ideas
Create a "Meet the Team" video series
Film a robot reveal or end-of-season recap
Start a “Day in the Life of a Robotics Team” vlog
Make a bloopers reel or pit time-lapse for fun
The Videographer/Photographer helps tell the story behind the robot—and that’s what makes the journey truly unforgettable.