Halls High FIRST Robotics Interview Article
ABICOR BINZEL Supports High School Robotics Team
Halls High School is located in the Halls Crossroads suburb of Knoxville, Tennessee, and is operated by Knox County Schools. Halls High works to prepare each student to be thoughtful, confident, and self-reliant adults by providing students with the knowledge and integrity they need to face the challenges of his/her complex world.
One incredible program that Halls High offers to its students is Red Nation Robotics. One outstanding offering that sets Halls High School apart is Red Nation Robotics. This exceptional program provides students with year-round opportunities to engage in various FIRST®-related activities, such as designing, building, and programming robots, managing websites, and promoting the team.
As a company that prides itself on being more than just a welding company, ABICOR BINZEL recognizes the importance of supporting youth programs like Red Nation Robotics. By sponsoring this innovative club, ABICOR BINZEL is committed to empowering young students at Halls High School to explore their potential, develop valuable skills, and thrive in a dynamic and ever-changing world.
We were lucky enough to be provided the opportunity to interview a few students that lead the Red Nation Robotics Program. Here is what they had to say...
What is the school’s mission or educational philosophy?
Halls High School, guided by a mission and educational philosophy centered around harnessing students' passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), is dedicated to fostering both academic and personal growth.
One remarkable way in which the school achieves this is through its robotics program, which provides students with a unique opportunity to delve into the exciting world of robot design and construction.
Through hands-on experiences in building robots, students at Halls High School not only develop technical skills, but also invaluable qualities such as time management and dedication. As they work on their robot projects, students learn to effectively manage their time, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively with their peers, preparing them for the challenges they will face in their future endeavors.
By providing a supportive environment where students can explore their STEM interests and actively engage in robotics, Halls High School empowers students to cultivate essential skills and qualities that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Can you give us more insight into FIRST® Robotics?
FIRST® Robotics is a competitive organization for high school students that participates in tournaments and challenges that involve limited time and resources. Through this organization, students gain valuable experience working on robotics projects and competing against other teams.
The primary goal of FIRST® Robotics is to inspire and motivate young people to become innovators and leaders in the STEM fields. By providing opportunities for students to work on hands-on projects and compete in challenging environments, FIRST® Robotics aims to foster a passion for STEM and help students develop the skills they need to succeed in these fields. Through participation in FIRST® Robotics, students not only gain technical skills but also learn valuable soft skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
The organization creates a supportive community where students can connect with peers who share their interests and aspirations. Overall, FIRST® Robotics is an important organization that plays a vital role in inspiring the next generation of STEM innovators and leaders. By providing opportunities for students to develop their skills and pursue their passions, the organization is helping to build a brighter future for all.
What do you do to get ready for a competition? The team recognizes that the success of the robot is closely tied to the success of the entire team. By prioritizing a thorough diagnosis of the robot, the team is taking a proactive approach to ensure that the robot is operating at its full potential, ultimately contributing to the team's overall success in competitions. In addition to this, it's essential to discuss the team's strategy and goals for the upcoming match. By earning the most points possible, it will determine whether the team will focus on playing support or defense, depending on the strengths of the robot and the other teams they'll be competing against. Another critical component of preparation is scouting the competition. This involves researching the other teams and knowing what to look for in terms of their strengths, weaknesses, and potential strategies. Having a thorough understanding of the competition can help the team anticipate challenges and opportunities during the match and adjust their strategy accordingly. Overall, taking the time to run a diagnosis, discuss strategy and goals, and conduct thorough scouting seem to be a priority when the Halls High team.
What do you see yourself doing after high school? All three students plan to pursue a degree in the engineering field after completing high school. For these students, engineering aligns well with their interests and career aspirations. One student has a specific goal in mind: while pursuing her associate's degree before transferring to The University of Tennessee, she hopes to have the opportunity to mentor the robotics team at Hall’s High. As someone who has been involved in robotics, she understands the value of having a mentor to guide and support the team. She hopes to share her knowledge and experience with the team and inspire others to pursue their interests in STEM fields. What are some of your favorite things about the industry? The students described one of the most exciting aspects of the robotics industry and STEM fields is that it is the “bleeding edge” of technology. The industry is constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible. This industry is constantly innovating and learning, always on the lookout for new ways to improve and evolve. This requires a great deal of mental effort and perseverance. However, the satisfaction that comes from successfully solving these challenges can be incredibly rewarding.
How are you using ABICOR BINZEL’s donation to better the program? Halls High School is leveraging the generous donation from ABICOR BINZEL to elevate their robotics program in multiple ways. Firstly, the donation is helping to cover the costs associated with developing and optimizing the drivetrain, ensuring that the robot is built to the best possible standard. In addition to supporting the robot's construction, the donation is also being used to acquire essential electrical equipment for the team. Access to high-quality equipment is vital for the proper functioning of the robot, and the donation is enabling the team to acquire the necessary resources to enhance their performance in competitions. Overall, the donation from ABICOR BINZEL is making a significant impact on Halls High School's robotics program, allowing them to build a high-quality robot, acquire essential equipment, and maintain their reputation as a leading program. The support from ABICOR BINZEL is helping to propel the team towards success and inspiring the next generation of STEM enthusiasts.