More than 60 seventh graders from Wedgewood and Woodward Park Middle Schools participated in a hands-on robotics workshop at Columbus State Community College on March 15, 2024. This event, titled “Dive Into STEM,” marked its inaugural appearance in Columbus and aimed to inspire students’ interest in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The workshop was a collaborative effort between the Robotics Education and Competition (REC) Foundation and Google.
During the workshop, students engaged in building their own remote-controlled robots, collaborating in teams of four. Each robot featured a drivetrain, four wheels, two motors, and an arm equipped with a claw. The exercise highlighted the students’ creativity as they worked to construct their robots. According to a statement from Columbus City Schools, one segment of each team concentrated on building the robot’s base, while another focused on creating the upper structure. At the conclusion of the event, the team whose robot successfully collected the most items using its claws was declared the winner.
Kelly Gunn, an administrative business partner at Google, underscored the importance of inclusivity within technology and STEM fields. “We want to help close that gap within technology and STEM to ensure that all students and all kids are having this opportunity to learn something new,” she explained. Her comments reflect Google’s ongoing commitment to enhancing technological education among diverse student groups.
The workshop benefited from the involvement of volunteers from both Google and the REC Foundation, who provided valuable guidance throughout the day. Additionally, the presence of high school mentors from North Union High School‘s competitive robotics team inspired the middle school participants. Patrick Price, regional support manager for the REC Foundation, noted the significance of hands-on experience, stating, “It’s important for students to participate in these community-building events so they can learn those soft skills our job creators are looking for.”
This initiative not only equipped young minds with essential skills but also highlighted the rapid advancements in technology. Workshops like this serve as critical platforms for students to develop vital competencies that align with workforce demands, ensuring they are prepared for future challenges.
As the students engaged in building and programming their robots, they experienced firsthand the excitement and potential of STEM fields. Events such as the “Dive Into STEM” workshop are crucial in fostering a new generation of innovators and problem solvers, paving the way for future careers in technology and engineering.
