Witch Doctor from BattleBots

Andrea first learned about robotics as a high school freshman, which quickly shifted her career goals from artist to engineer. She now has over 15 years of experience in combat robotics, winning a number of national titles. Andrea recently presented at the Kennedy Space Center on designing for damage and redundancy, and has spoken on discussion panels for a variety of audiences. She is also co-founder of MakeMIA Makerspace. She is currently working in research and development at Zimmer Biomet, where she has focused on upper extremity trauma for the past 11 years and has been awarded several utility patents. Andrea received her BS and MS in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Miami.

Mike grew up aspiring to be an engineer since he was very young. He has developed a wide range of fabrication skills, such as CNC machining and TIG welding. He has been building combat robots since 2005, winning various national titles in multiple weight classes. In his spare time, he builds and competes across Florida with his drift car. ​He is currently developing robotic surgery products, after working in orthopedics for 10 years. Prior to entering the medical device industry, he developed a 3-wheels vehicle for Scorpion Motorsports. Mike received his MS in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from the University of Miami.

Paul began his exploits into engineering during high school, attending the engineering magnet program and participating on the FIRST robotics team at Miami Coral Park SHS. He attended Florida International University, earning a bachelors in mechanical engineering while holding the position of Vice Chairman of the student chapter for ASME over two years. Since graduating Paul has continued to pursue his love of robotics and technology, at various times mentoring FIRST and VEX teams while discovering a passion for the design challenge combat robotics offers and the interconnected nature of mechanical design and marketing. Be it through the design of medical devices as a profession or the integration of electro-mechanical systems for consumer goods and 3D printing for cosplay uses Paul continues to explore the boundaries of design and manufacturing philosophies.