Our MENTORS

Torque is powered by dedicated volunteer mentors who guide and support our students through every step of their FIRST Robotics journey. These industry professionals volunteer their time to teach real-world skills, encourage problem-solving, and help students grow as future STEM leaders. We’re proud to highlight the mentors who make our team stronger—both inside and outside the robotics lab.

LEAD MENTORS | CISD MENTORS

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Scott Rippetoe,
lead mentor

Lead mentor for TORQUE (FRC 1477 & FRC 7492), Mr. Rip spent 30 years teaching physics and robotics before serving as Conroe ISD’s District Robotics Instructional Coach. Now retired from the classroom, he focuses on mentoring and growing the impact of robotics in the community.

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TREY WOLF,
Coding mentor | CISD

Mr. Wolf is a CISD mentor for TORQUE, supporting students with programming and software development. He also teaches Computer Science at the Academy of Science and Technology at College Park High School.

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JIM RAPACKI,
MECHANICAL MENTOR

A mentor for TORQUE, Mr. Rapacki is a retired project engineer with expertise in F135 engine controls, lubrication systems, and sensor components.

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DARPAN MUSALE,
BUSINESS MENTOR

Ms. Musale is the Business Mentor for Texas Torque since joining in the 2023-2024 season. As a Graphic Designer, she works with students to develop a variety of social & digital content and marketing materials that showcase the team and its work.

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Yevhenyia Bauer,
lead mentor | cisd

A lead mentor for TORQUE and a Precalculus DC and Geometry Honors teacher at the Academy of Science and Technology, Ms. Bauer manages team administration, travel logistics, communications, and event coordination. Now in her fifth year with TORQUE, she also supports student leadership and supervises lab and competition activities.

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jonathan duncan,
business mentor | cisd

Geometry teacher at TWCP and sponsor of the Korean Club, Mr. Duncan has mentored TORQUE for three years with a focus on grants and logistics. He’s excited about the momentum building with Texas and Turbo Torque this season.

VOLUNTEER MENTORS

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MARK KHUNEL,
PROGRAMMING MENTOR

Director of Operations at Invocon, Mark oversees quality assurance, IT, and business process automation. As a mentor for TORQUE, he supports the programming team with technical guidance and real-world expertise.

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ANDERS JOHNSON,
MECHANICAL MENTOR

A mechanical engineer at Kinder Morgan, Anders supports the development of underground natural gas storage and transport systems. He brings hands-on expertise in mechanical assembly, tools, and materials to the TORQUE team.

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jarrod fredericks,
lead mentor | CISD

Mr. Fredericks teaches AP and dual credit social studies and mentors TORQUE with a focus on project management and game theory.

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daniel willinksy,
facilities mentor | cisd

Mr. Willinsky is a CISD mentor. He teaches the Principles of Engineering and Robotics courses at College Park High School.

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DEB RALEY,
BUSINESS MENTOR

Business mentor for TORQUE since 2024, Deb is a small business owner and coach specializing in systems, websites, digital marketing, communications, and fundraising. She also serves as Booster Club President.

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DAVID KONNEKER,
MECHANCIAL MENTOR

Strategy Manager at Caterpillar Inc., David brings 25 years of experience in engineering, planning, and commercial operations. As a technical mentor for TORQUE, he empowers students through hands-on work with CAD, machining, welding, and 3D printing—helping them build real-world skills and confidence.

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JOEL WELCH,
OUTREACH MENTOR | CISD

An Outreach mentor for TORQUE since 2021, Mr. Welch brings a strong focus on inclusion and student support. Outside the team, he teaches special education, helping foster a welcoming environment where all students can thrive.

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SUZI MARCUCCIO ,
MECHANICAL MENTOR

With 30 years at Halliburton in roles spanning operations engineering, project management, technical training, and product line leadership, Suzi brings deep industry expertise to TORQUE. She joined as an FRC mentor in 2024.