New members at an Illini RoboMaster info session

●  Join the team

Build robots that fight back.

Join 40+ students pushing the limits of collegiate robotics. First-year or grad student, every major is welcome.

Competition season

One year. From sketch to world stage.

  1. FallAug – Sep

    Team Recruitment

    Open applications, technical interviews, and new member orientation.

    Applications OpenTeam Selection
  2. FallOct – Dec

    Design & Development

    Strategic robot design, rapid prototyping, and system testing.

    CAD DesignPrototyping
  3. SpringJan – Mar

    Build & Integration

    Precision manufacturing, robot assembly, and full integration with software.

    ManufacturingAssembly
  4. SpringApr – May

    Testing & Competition

    Intensive testing, strategy refinement, and regional competition.

    Field TestingRegional Finals
  5. SummerJun – Jul

    International Finals

    World championship preparation, travel, and global competition (if qualified).

    World Championship

Who we're looking for

No experience required.
Drive is.

01 / Background

Any major

  • Engineering (ME, EE, CS, AE, and more)
  • Business and marketing
  • Design and fine arts
  • All majors welcome

02 / Skills

Technical skills

  • Programming (C++, Python, MATLAB)
  • CAD (SolidWorks, AutoCAD)
  • Electronics and circuit design
  • Manufacturing and machining

03 / Mindset

Personal qualities

  • Passion for robotics and innovation
  • Strong work ethic and dedication
  • Collaborative team player
  • Willingness to learn and grow

Member benefits

What you get out of it.

Real engineering on real deadlines, with a team that competes internationally.

15+
Hours per week
$10K+
Annual team budget

01

Workshop access

02

Industry connections

03

International competition

04

Leadership development

05

Mentorship

06

Internship opportunities

Application process

Four steps in.

The interview isn't a cut — everyone who applies joins the team. It's a conversation about what you want to build.

01

Apply

Fill out the online form with your background and interests.

02

Technical interview

Talk through your interests and experience with team leads.

03

Trial period

Two weeks working alongside the sub-teams.

04

Full membership

Join your sub-team and start contributing to the robots.

Recruitment schedule

When to apply.

Fall recruitment · Primary

Aug 15 – Oct 15

Our main recruitment period.

Spring recruitment

Jan 15 – Feb 15

Limited positions available.

Ready?

Your seat in the pit is open.

Saturdays at the ECEB Open Lab. Questions? [email protected]