What is TCHS HelioTech?
TCHS HelioTech is California's premier solar car racing team. Each season we construct a vehicle completely ran on solar energy, and race at the Solar Car Challenge located in Texas!
Why should I join HelioTech?
HelioTech is a multi faceted program, engaging students in hands-on activities that are not taught in school. We are the #1 solar development team in all of California, and explore topics such as welding, wiring, cad, business, and much more. Any and all students are encouraged to try out for our team! We are looking for those who have open schedules, are open to learning, and think critically. Technical skills are a plus, but not required.
What’s the time commitment & meeting times?
Team members are expected to keep their schedules open every Saturday and Sunday morning. Meetings are held from 8am - 12pm at school. Some meetings may also extend beyond regular school hours on weekdays. An average of 8 - 10 hours per week at the workshop is expected, as well as additional work at home. These allocated time slots are provided to ensure all students are well versed in all five components of the program.
How can we show our support for the program?
Show your support by purchasing our team apparel, sponsoring our team and/or joining us for the competition at Texas! Information about sponsorships and merchandise purchases can be aquired via email.
What our team structure like?
This year, our program will be composed of two different teams each with their own hierarchy and roles. Our team has two main concentrations, Technical and Operations. Our Technical team is responsible for the construction and design of the vehicle, while Operations is in charge of funding and public relations. This year there will be no distinct sub teams, other than Operations, and ALL members will be required to learn about each component of the car.
What is the difference between each team?
Our main team (green) composed of senior specialists, deputies, and our executive board, will be retrofitting our current classic division vehicle to be more energy efficient, and road race worthy. Our second team (gold) will be studying each component, while learning CAD and other technical skills, to be applied to a cruiser division vehicle.
All team members will take part in each component, and not stick to one concentration the whole year. Team members are expected to be well rounded in all subjects that are taught. Click on each component to learn more about it.
