Since our start in 2005, we’ve always believed that Team 1816, "The Green Machine," is about much more than just the hardware. We began as a small group of students building robots around a kitchen table in Edina, and today, we are incredibly proud to be a FIRST Hall of Fame team. Our journey has been about proving that a robotics team is more than just engineering and teamwork, but a powerful force for community and legislative change.

Our most defining milestone came in 2019 when we were honored with the Impact Award at the Detroit World Championships. While we love the thrill of the competition, we’ve always viewed our platform as a way to advocate for others. We were a driving force that convinced the MSHSL to recognize robotics as a varsity sport, and for many years we have to Washington D.C. to lobby for STEM funding that benefits students nationwide.

At the end of the day, our culture is what keeps us grounded. Every one of us signs a Core Values Covenant rooted in Respect, Trust, Inclusivity, Commitment, and the Joy of Life. We live by this philosophy, ensuring that even in the heat of build season, we stay focused on being compassionate, professional leaders. For us, FIRST isn't just about building great machines; it's about building a better future together.