This year’s Robotics season ended on a strong note. The team, Servo Stressors, placed second in two award categories in the regional finals:
- The Connect Award: This judged award is given to the team that most connects with their local science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) community.
- The Control Award: The Control Award celebrates a team that uses sensors and software to increase the Robot’s functionality in the field. This award is given to the team that demonstrates innovative thinking to solve game challenges such as autonomous operation, improving mechanical systems with intelligent control, or using sensors to achieve better results.
This year in Robotics is significant for its number of strong seniors who have played a leadership role on the team. Physics teacher and Robotics team coach Cliff shares the following on each senior:
Mac Beatrice: We have been glad to have Mac be able to be part of the team, despite his limited time as a select hockey player. His problem-solving abilities provided several good design ideas over the past three seasons.
Russell Bigham: Russell’s vision and out-of-the-box thinking have led the way for our design process, constantly pushing the team to make improvements, and developing several innovative ideas himself. He led the way in introducing CAD drawings and 3-D printing this year, including many custom parts for our robot. He has contributed countless hours of his own time to the team.
Camden Breckenridge: Without Camden’s ability to see how to turn vision into reality, we would not have a structurally sound working robot. They have been the voice of reason needed to keep others grounded, while also displaying great technical skill in the robot construction process. Camden also helped us shine during each of our judging interviews.
Nick Babusis: Nick’s technical expertise and natural brilliance made it possible to put all programming responsibilities on his shoulders for the past three years. He has led the way in learning, mastering, and now teaching the necessary programming skills. He has likely put in more hours of work than anyone else and has done so without a single complaint.
Ernest McCarter: Ernest has been the de facto leader of the team from day one. His variety of skills and ability to work with people have been instrumental. Our team could not have accomplished a fraction of what it did–and perhaps would not exist–without Ernest and his natural leadership.
Thank you to the seniors and the entire Robotics team!