# Zoe Foxlin

<figure><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/3lMcmYNZwepJ8VBzSDr1/blobs/mbHfzAafwq70s0ak1f6c/PartsHello.jpg" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Zoe Foxlin is the owner and operator of [Zoe's Garage](../places/zoes-garage), a central hub for robot builders in [Stardust Springs](../places/stardust-springs). Known for her mechanical ingenuity, Foxlin has become an essential figure in the RoboBattles community.

## Early Life

Growing up in a family-owned aircraft repair shop, Foxlin spent her childhood surrounded by tools and machinery. Her mother, a pilot who ran Foxlin's Air Repair for over forty years, encouraged her natural curiosity about how things worked. By age twelve, Zoe could diagnose engine problems by sound alone, a skill that would later prove invaluable in RoboBattles maintenance.

The original Foxlin's Air Repair closed when her mother retired, but the building remained in the family. Years later, when [Mayor Ishii](lily-ishii) launched the [Neighborhood Workshop Initiative](../lily-ishii#the-neighborhood-workshop-initiative), Zoe converted the space into Zoe's Garage.

## Role in Robot Building

### Technical Expertise

In the RoboBattles community, Foxlin serves as more than just a garage operator. Her deep mechanical knowledge makes her an invaluable resource for newcomers seeking guidance on their first builds. During tournaments, she often works behind the scenes as an emergency repair specialist, helping competitors salvage and rebuild their robots between matches.

### Design Philosophy

Foxlin's approach to robot construction emphasizes whimsical designs. She encourages builders to think creatively about salvaged materials, finding silly, colorful, and wild uses for discarded items that others might overlook. This philosophy has influenced many builders in the community to consider not just how their robots will perform in competition, but how they will entertain the crowd and inspire young aspiring robot builders of all backgrounds.

### Mentorship Philosophy

Foxlin takes pride in making Zoe's Garage a welcoming place for all residents of Stardust Springs. Community members love to hang out in her garage. She keeps the snack drawer well stocked with everyone's favorite snacks, and prioritizes fun over rule-following. Foxlin always says "yes" to requests for help, no matter how busy her schedule is. She engages robot builders of all backgrounds by answering questions and sharing design ideas.
