OPSU Math and Science Club Hosts Inaugural Robotics Competition

The OPSU Math and Science Club hosted its inaugural Robotics Competition event, welcoming high school teams from Boise City, Merritt, Altus, Moreland, and Freedom. The event, part of For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics, a leading youth organization focused on advancing STEM education, brought together students and faculty to celebrate innovation, teamwork, and a shared passion for science and technology.

This year’s theme, Into the Deep, challenged teams to design and build robots capable of “diving” into the depths of the ocean and exploring the mysteries below. Each team displayed their engineering skills, strategic thinking, and collaborative spirit as they showcased robots built to navigate the intricacies of underwater exploration.

The Science and Math Club advisors, Sarah Green and Hannah Martin expressed their enthusiasm for hosting the event, saying, “The Science and Math Club was excited to help with the robotics competition and visit with all the high school students. It was a great experience for both their students and ours.”

The event drew praise from the College of Agriculture, Science, and Nursing, with Dean Tracy Kincannon noting the importance of hands-on learning. “Hosting events like these is a great way for OPSU to support the experiential learning that STEM programs like these provide,” stated Kincannon.

The competition provided an opportunity for local students to engage in STEM-based activities and fostered connections between high school students and OPSU’s academic community. As the university continues to promote STEM initiatives and community engagement, events like the FIRST Robotics Competition are becoming vital platforms for encouraging the next generation of innovators