Organizational Structure

Student Leadership

Team 977 follows an organizational structure where student leaders set the agenda and manage the work tasks for different projects. All students are involved in all projects.

Preston Whitt

Director of Programs, Strategy, and Drive Team

2023-Current (Sophomore)

Sophomore at Halifax County High School with experience in robot programming, design, electrical systems, and mechanical integration. Preston helps oversee technical development for Team 977 and supports younger students during outreach events and STEM demonstrations.

Matthew Morris

Director of Operations, Impact, and Pit Captain

2024-Current (Sophomore)

Sophomore at Halifax County High School and coordinate team logistics, oversees pit organization and efficiency during competitions, and leads efforts related to the team’s Impact initiatives and community outreach. Matthew plays an important role in keeping the team running smoothly both on and off the competition field.

Subteams

Team 977 emphasizes collaboration, and all members contribute to multiple aspects of the team regardless of subteam assignment.

Mechanical / Build

This subteam designs, fabricates, and assembles the robot. Members work with tools, CAD designs, and prototypes to build systems like the drivetrain, intake, and scoring mechanisms. They also handle maintenance and repairs during competitions.

(Lead: Preston Whitt | Matthew Morris, Kyren Gebs, Rayne Mollohan, Jude Lee, Jayai Li, Graham)

Programming

The programming team develops the code that controls the robot. This includes autonomous routines, driver controls, sensor integration, and system tuning. They work closely with mechanical and electrical teams to ensure the robot functions as intended.

(Lead: Preston Whitt | Jude Lee)

Electrical

This subteam wires and maintains the robot’s electrical systems. They install motors, sensors, controllers, and power distribution systems while troubleshooting issues during build and competition.

(Lead: Preston Whitt | Jude Lee,

Kyren Gebs)

Pit Crew

The pit crew supports the robot during competitions by performing repairs, adjustments, and quick fixes between matches. They ensure the robot is competition-ready at all times and manage tools and organization in the pit area.

(Lead: Matthew Morris | Graham)

Strategy/Scouting

This group analyzes game rules, match data, and opponent performance. They help develop match strategy, pick alliance partners, and make data-driven decisions during competitions.

(Lead: Jude Lee | Jaiyi Li)

Drive Team

The drive team operates the robot during matches and practices. They focus on driving strategy, communication, and execution under pressure. They work closely with all subteams to understand robot capabilities and limitations.

(Preston Whitt- Driver, Kyren Gebs and Rayne Mollohan- Human Players)

Impact/Outreach

This subteam focuses on community engagement, storytelling, and STEM advocacy. They manage awards applications (like the Impact Award), run outreach events, visit schools, and promote STEM in the community.

(Lead- Matthew Morris | All Team Members)

Mentors

Team 977 is student-led and mentor-supported, with mentors providing guidance, technical expertise, and safety oversight while students drive all major decisions.

Chris Whitt, EdD

Lead Mentor

2025-Current

Adam Reeves

Technical Mentor and Advisor

2016-Current

Advisory Board

Team 977’s Advisory Board consists of community leaders, educators, and industry professionals who support the team’s mission to expand STEM access in Southern Virginia. The board provides guidance, resources, and strategic insight while ensuring the team remains student-led. Students from Team 977 meet with board members twice a year.

Alyssa Rogers- Co-owner, Rogers Heating and Air

Angelia Townes-Yancy- Community Relations Coordinator, Hitachi Energy of South Boston

Brian Brown- Industrial Development Authority of Halifax County

Hope Harris-Gayles- Director of Communications and Outreach, Southern Virginia Higher Education Center

Julia Salley- Teacher Halifax County Middle School, GoTech and Robotics

Mark Gosney- Halifax County Public School Board Member

Mel Hastings- Career and Technical Education Director for Halifax County Public Schools

Ron Brade- Halifax County Administrator

Sam Knapp- Teacher Halifax County Middle School, Robotics and GoTech

Susan Throckmorton - President, Halifax County Chamber of Commerce

Open: Parent, Alumni, Elementary Teacher

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