u/Born-Lawyer4225

The former programmer on our team isn't going to be able to help us anymore so I volunteered to replace him (I'm coming from CAD). I took a kotlin course but realized that most of the stuff I was learning wasn't going to help me so I got the book Learn Java for FTC I've read most of it but it's hard for me to retain the information without actually using it (which I couldn't do cause I was reading it at home). I programmed for FLL for 3 years (in block though, not python) so I know some of the basic stuff (loops, if thens, ect.).

My coach let me bring home the control hub, a driver station, a 435 rpm gobilda motor, and a battery. What can I do with these that will help me not be completely lost going into BioBuz. I've already gotten the Driver Station to say hello world but that's it (I'm using java in intellij).

I've been into 3d printing for a while now and have been working on some model rockets that could really benefit from having some wood fins instead of plastic. I know I'd use it often, but I want to be safe (I'm in my teens and don't want to regret things later on) but I only have a $250 budget. I've looked at the Elegoo Phecda and it looks promising considering I want to run the laser cutter outside or in a garage with the door open so I don't need a filter. I've seen both Maker's Muse's and Faux Hammer's laser cutting safety videos and have honestly been a bit scared away by them. I'll make sure to get a quality pair of safety glasses to protect my eyes but was wondering what yall think about using the laser cutter outside. Also, what wattage laser would yall recomend?