The team was given the same materials as every other group, and they were challenged to design, create, and engineer a robot that transports wind turbines.

This year’s theme is “Blade Runner” — an exercise in building wind turbines while avoiding common farm obstacles, like prairie chickens.

The BEST Robotics program is more than a competition — BEST teaches teamwork, hard work, and the skill sets required for America’s current and future workforce. By participating in BEST, students gain a greater understanding of the workforce needs not only in our community but also across our nation. Students get a firmer grasp of how technology impacts transportation systems and the importance of our country’s energy sector.

A total possible 100 points can be earned based on the following criteria: project engineering notebook, marketing presentation, team exhibit and interviews, spirit and sportsmanship, and the robot performance.

The BEST Award is presented to the team that best embodies the concept of Boosting Engineering, Science, and Technology.

This concept recognizes that inclusiveness, diversity of participation, exposure to and use of the engineering process, sportsmanship, teamwork, creativity, positive attitude and enthusiasm, and school and community involvement play significant roles in a team’s competitive experience and contribute to student success in the competition beyond winning an award.

Submitted by Nick Cherico, 9th Grade