Riverside RoboTigers qualify for FIRST Robotics world championship
After a strong start to the 2019 robotics season, the Riverside University High School RoboTigers stood up to more than 50 teams from across the country to reach the finals of their regional competition and come home with a win! The group competed in Chicago on March 9–10, and the impressive win qualified the team for the FIRST Robotics Championship in Detroit, scheduled for April 24–27. The only obstacle still in their way is the funding for their trip.
The students who make up the RoboTigers represent several MPS high schools. About half the team members are girls—an unusually high ratio in the robotics world. The students are the designers, fabricators, mechanics, programmers, and operators of their robot. With support from local businesses, teachers, alumni, and mentors, the students of Riverside Robotics have created a nationally competitive robot. This is the third consecutive year the RoboTigers have made it to FIRST Robotics championships.
The toughest part of the team’s journey is now underway. The RoboTigers are attempting to raise an additional $10,000 for their trip to cover costs for hotels, meals, and transportation. Corporate donations from Rockwell Automation, GE Healthcare, and other local companies are covering the team’s entrance fee for the event, but more is needed quickly.
“The RoboTigers are the perfect example of the success that comes from creating an inclusive environment with strong mentors and school support,” said Jay Flores, Global STEM Ambassador at Rockwell Automation. “This team, with its determination, creativity, and ability to problem-solve and troubleshoot, is a reflection of what I hope our industry will eventually look like!”
“These talented students are learning skills that will make them competitive and in-demand in college and the workplace,” said Erin Walsh, Science Department Chair at Riverside. “Jobs in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) are some of the fastest-growing fields in the job market. Students can apply what they learn in competition to real-world situations in the future.”
The RoboTigers, along with MPS teams from Bay View and Bradley Tech, will compete at the Wisconsin Regional competition at the UWM Panther Arena, March 28–30. The public is welcome to attend this free event and see all the exciting work that our local teams have accomplished.
On behalf of the entire district – good luck, RoboTigers!
After a strong start to the 2019 robotics season, the Riverside University High School RoboTigers stood up to more than 50 teams from across the country to reach the finals of their regional competition and come home with a win! The group competed in Chicago on March 9–10, and the impressive win qualified the team for the FIRST Robotics Championship in Detroit, scheduled for April 24–27. The only obstacle still in their way is the funding for their trip.
