Meet maker Jerry Clarkin, builder of BattleBot SubZero
Maker Jerry Clarkin, builder of BattleBot – SubZero, and leader of Team Hammertime, took time away from making to answer a few questions about being a maker, competing, and building robots.
What do you make?
I build combat robots.
Who do you make it for?
I build them to compete at engineering competitions such as BattleBots.
Where are you located?
I am located in Malvern, PA.
When did you start making?
I started making fighting robots in the year 2000 and have built 14 robots in the 120-340 lb weight classes. In 2011 I quit building robots and built a custom three wheel car from the ground up. Then in 2016, I got back into making combat robots because I love the competition, machine vs machine.
What inspired you to make a BattleBot?
Back in 2000, we started watching the TV show BattleBots and the guys I work with told me I should enter. They knew I love to build things. It changed my life forever.
What makers inspire you?
Everyone who builds inspires me, I enjoy looking at all kinds of machines and gadgets. They give me ideas, some of which I try to improve. I am also an accomplished inventor. I have had two auto mechanic tools go retail that I designed.
What’s next?
As for whats next? The new design of SubZero is in the works right now. I want to add more armor and a high temperature flame thrower.
Follow Team Hammertime on Facebook, watch SubZero on the premiere of Battlebots Friday, May 11th at 8pm on the Discovery Channel, and come see SubZero live at the Faire!