Through the Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) program, one has the opportunity to explore many aspects of the scientific field. Rigorous math and science classes can expand student knowledge through mental exploration, while engineering classes allow students to understand with hands on interactions.

Robotics is a convergence between these interests to create a world for students to explore technology while learning.

“I have always loved STEM, and I wanted to join robotics to learn more about it, and have fun while doing so,” president Milan Bhattacharya explains, “on top of that, it will be a great experience for the rest of my life, as I plan to go into engineering.

An opportunity to expand beyond conventional learning is found in the construction of complex robots by students. Vice president Casey McMahon explains the process for creating the robots in preparation for competition.

“Robotics is unique because there really isn’t a way to prepare for the season; we don’t know what our challenge will be until weeks before it is due.”

The creation of robots meets a unique crossroad of creativity and practicality. Robotics club encapsulates the different problem solving and collaboration skills required for the complex machinery.

President of Robotics Club, Milan Bhattacharya, enjoys this freedom to explore technology.

“My favorite part of Robotics Club is the [First Robotics Competition] FRC challenge release. The excitement we all get [when] finding out what our robot will have to do and knowing that we have only a few weeks to design and build it.”

Through this hands on approach, students are led by advisor and physics teacher Andrea Strock. Her expertise leads students in the right direction to create powerful robots.

“Watching the students go through the process and even though it is stressful at times, watching them get it done [to] ultimately seeing their passion [makes it worth it].”

On Jan. 9, FRC will have the challenge released and the teams will have until Feb. 23 to design, build and modify their robot. Once the robot is completed, it cannot be modified. The regionals at Grand Canyon University include unique challenges like basketball, frisbee and climbing to challenge.

With the new challenges presented to the team, the collaboration of students will achieve greatness with the challenges presented to them