McCaskey High School’s Robotics Program: A Journey from Humble Beginnings to Regional Competition Host

A Remarkable Transformation: From Three Students to Three Teams

In 2016, McCaskey High School embarked on an incredible journey into the realm of robotics. What began as a modest operation with only three students working in the basement under the guidance of Andrew Friedlund, a dedicated computer and robotics teacher, has now flourished into a three-team powerhouse hosting a regional state-qualifying competition. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the unwavering dedication of the students, the exceptional mentorship of Mr. Friedlund, and the school’s unwavering commitment to STEM education.

Regional Competition: A Battle of Innovation and Skill

The annual regional robotics competition, held at the McCaskey East High School gymnasium, brings together 21 robotics teams from across Pennsylvania, representing the brightest and most innovative young minds in the state. These teams, each composed of six to seven students, engage in an intense battle of innovation and skill, showcasing their meticulously designed, built, and programmed robots in a floor game against other teams’ creations. The top-performing teams will earn a coveted spot at the PA FIRST Tech Challenge Robotics state tournament in March. The state’s top three teams will then advance to the world competition, a testament to their exceptional talent and unwavering dedication.

Unveiling the Cyclones: A Team of Passionate Programmers

Among the three McCaskey teams competing in the regional tournament is the “Cyclones,” a group of enthusiastic and talented students led by Uwen Cham, a junior at McCaskey High School. Cham, who joined the team at the beginning of the school year, has swiftly emerged as one of the leading programmers, demonstrating exceptional skills and an unwavering passion for coding. Her dedication and talent have earned her a spot as an advanced student in Mr. Friedlund’s introductory computer science class, where she continues to expand her knowledge and expertise.

Beyond Robotics: The Practical Applications of Coding

The skills that students acquire through robotics competitions extend far beyond the confines of the competition arena. As Mr. Friedlund emphasizes, learning the intricacies of coding and programming can have a profound impact on students’ earning potential and future career prospects. For Cham, who comes from a refugee camp, the opportunity to develop these skills opens up a world of possibilities. While she may not pursue coding as a specific career path, she dreams of applying her knowledge in the electronics field, demonstrating the versatility and applicability of the skills she is gaining.

Dedication and Perseverance: Building and Programming the Robot

In preparation for the regional competition, Cham and her teammates have committed themselves to an intensive schedule, dedicating at least six hours per week to building and programming their robot. Their unwavering dedication is evident in the meticulous attention to detail and the innovative solutions they have incorporated into their robot’s design. Additionally, the team took on the challenge of 3D printing the block that the robot will be tasked with locating during their matches, demonstrating their technical prowess and resourcefulness.

Previous Success and Aspirations for the Upcoming Competition

Last year, McCaskey High School had the honor of hosting the same regional competition, and all three of its teams secured a spot at the state tournament, a testament to the school’s consistently high level of performance in robotics. This year, Cham and her teammates are determined to replicate that success and even surpass it. They aspire to earn a medal at the upcoming competition, a goal that is within their reach given their talent, dedication, and the unwavering support of their mentors and the school community.

Family Support and the Joy of Competing at Home

For Cham, the upcoming competition holds a special significance as it will be the first time her family will be able to witness her compete on the robotics team. The opportunity to showcase her skills and passion in front of her loved ones adds an extra layer of excitement and motivation for Cham and her teammates. Their families’ presence will undoubtedly provide an emotional boost and a sense of camaraderie as they navigate the challenges of the competition.

Conclusion: A Testament to STEM Education and Student Potential

The remarkable journey of McCaskey High School’s robotics program, from its humble beginnings to hosting a regional competition, stands as a testament to the transformative power of STEM education. The dedication of the students, the guidance of their mentors, and the unwavering support of the school community have created an environment where young minds can thrive, innovate, and achieve remarkable things. The upcoming regional competition promises to be a showcase of talent, creativity, and the boundless potential of students when they are empowered to pursue their passions in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.