2026 FALL - TRAINING, OUTREACH AND OFF-SEASON COMPETITION

Team 980 meets at the STEAM Lab in Burbank HS.

We are open to all BUSD and area students from grades 8-12.

No prior enrollment required - just show up prepared to jump in!

Who is Team 980?

FIRST Robotics Competition Team 980 ThunderBots is a 501(c)(3) public charity and competitive robotics team with the mission of inspiring young people to become science, technology, and business leaders.

Dedicated mentors and sponsors work with high school aged students from Burbank Unified School District and other neighboring schools on a robotics challenge set by the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition in Science and Technology) organization in which we compete. Team 980 is also the perfect environment to develop important non-technical skills in logistics, marketing, graphic design, communications, finance and business practices. Ultimately, we encourage growth in creativity, problem-solving, strategy, leadership, initiative and teamwork.

Partnering with the BUSD NAF Academies, Team 980 is located in the STEAM lab at Burbank High School, welcoming students from both Burbank high schools as well as 8th graders from the middle schools. We provide real world experience in programming, electronics, machining, construction, mechanical design, business practices, and outreach.  Any students with the passion to learn, a drive to create, and a competitive spirit are welcome to join.