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Young Innovators Build Award-Winning Robot, Aim for National Stage
26 Mar
Summary
- The Mechaneers robotics team consists of 11 students from diverse educational backgrounds.
- The team secured the Sustain and Think Awards, qualifying for the state championship.
- The Mechaneers are preparing to compete at a national premier event in Indiana.
A diverse group of 11 students, ranging from sixth to 11th grade, has united to form the award-winning Mechaneers robotics team. This community team comprises students from homeschooled, private, and public school backgrounds.
The Mechaneers compete in the FIRST Tech Challenge, where they design, build, and program robots for themed games. This comprehensive program emphasizes STEM skills, business strategy, budgeting, marketing, and community outreach.
In their debut competition, the team won the Sustain Award for their future planning and financial management. They later earned the Think Award and qualified for the Mississippi FIRST Tech Challenge Robotics State Championship held in Oxford.
At the state championship, the Mechaneers reached the playoffs, finishing sixth overall and securing second place for the coveted Inspire Award. This award recognizes overall team growth in knowledge and community STEM engagement.
Currently, the Mechaneers are fundraising to cover the estimated $7,800 cost of their robot, The Black Pearl. The team is preparing for a national premier event in Indiana from June 18-21, seeking sponsorships to fund their upcoming trip and further competition.
