Local Robotics Competition Returns for 17th Year

Woodstock – On Thursday, Nov. 28, local high school students will be taking part in the Oxford Invitational Youth Robotics Challenge. The event takes place at Reeves Community Complex, Goff Gymnasium from 2 – 5:30 p.m.

For the past couple of months, students have been working in teams to plan, design and build a functioning industrial-type robot. Each year students are presented with a new challenge. This year, participants must build a part-supplying robot and complete a task simulating the delivery of a part across an industrial facility.

“This event is such a great opportunity for students to gain insight into real-world applications of robotics,” said Brad Hammond, Economic Development Officer for the City of Woodstock and co-chair of the competition. “Working with industry mentors, the program allows students to use age and skill appropriate materials to explore solutions related to engineering, technology and skilled trade career paths – which of course make up a large portion of the local employment market.”

Each team received a Lego Spike Prime Kit to build their robot and no additional materials are permitted. Teams must also present a written report and video outlining their learnings and the challenges they encountered along their journey.

Teams begin setting up their projects at 2 p.m., with judging happening from 3 to 5 p.m. Students will then present their creations to the panel of judges from 5 to 5:30 p.m.

“It is inspiring to see the teams learn and develop over the course of a few months, moving from concept to an operational robot,” added Lisa Wells, Manager of Continuing Education and Contract Training at Fanshawe College Woodstock/Oxford Regional Campus, who also co-chairs the competition. “Not only can you see each team’s technical skills improve, but you can see growth in their problem solving, teamwork and leadership skills too. Every team should be proud of their accomplishments regardless of where they place in Thursday’s competition”

This marks the 17th year of the competition.

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