The number of the Steel Ridge Robotics team, 4363, is emblazoned on the side of a gleaming, high-tech robot, and it’s ready for competition. Constructed entirely by the students, it’s designed to take on a range of tasks here at the FIRST regional robotics competition in Wilsonville, OR. RHS students stand at the controls, ready to pilot their robot through a challenging course. They have spent many hours building, testing, and preparing for competition in the build lab at Wisdom Ridge Academy.
\r\nThe competitions are part of the national FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) program. FIRST works to get students of all ages into STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) careers by inspiring their interest in activities like robotics. The Steel Ridge Robotics team uses the competitions to learn and develop a wide range of skills, including machining, programming, design and CAD, business, and media.
\r\nAt the FIRST regional robotics event, the Steel Ridge Robotics team took fifth place overall. They were also awarded the Gracious Professionalism Award, an honor awarded to teams that display exceptional resilience and grace in competition.
\r\nRHS students on this year’s team include Aubrey Sigman, Asher Anderson, Zach Proctor, Caden Dalley, Wyatt Ballweber, Katherine Stryker, Nathan Walker, Caden Edwards, Kaylee Kirkelie, Wyatt Henry, Alyssa Ravelli, James Haddix, William Sowders, and Connor Coleman. Their advisor, Becca Slough, and team mentors, Chad Stryker, Shawna Ravelli, Steve Roth, and Ken Kirkelie, all have extensive experience in STEAM.
\r\nFor more information on Steel Ridge Robotics and FIRST competitions, or to support the team through mentoring or sponsorship, visit www.steelridge6343.com.
