Calhoun Community College recently hosted the Tennessee Valley Boosting Engineering Science and Technology (BEST) robotics competition at its Decatur campus. The event brought together middle and high school students from various schools to showcase their skills and creativity in robotics.
The highlight of the competition was the ABS Trobotics team from Athens Bible School, which took home the top award for the second consecutive year. The team impressed the judges with their technical documentation, presentation, booth exhibit, team spirit, and robot performance. They will now advance to the South’s BEST Regional competition at the University of North Alabama.
The theme of this year’s competition was “Incision Decision,” a medical-based simulation that challenged teams to design and promote a surgical robot. Over the course of seven weeks, teams had to complete various deliverables related to the theme and their fictional medical technology company. They also had to demonstrate how their team supported STEM growth and engaged the community.
In addition to the main categories, teams had the opportunity to submit entries for website design, a 90-second commercial, and T-shirt design. These additional categories provided recognition for their creativity and design skills.
The ABS Trobotics program has been participating in BEST since 2006 and has consistently excelled in the competition. This year, the team comprised 32 students who were involved in all scoring categories. The program has become an integral part of the school, representing 18% of the eligible student body.
The BEST Robotics league aligns perfectly with Calhoun Community College’s focus on STEM education. The event not only encourages technical skills but also fosters collaboration, strategic thinking, and practical application. It provides a platform for young engineers and future business professionals to showcase their innovation and creativity.
To support the ABS Trobotics program and contribute to STEM education, interested individuals can reach out to the school for partnership opportunities.
FAQ
1. What is the BEST Robotics competition?
The BEST Robotics competition is an annual event that challenges middle and high school students to design and showcase their skills in robotics. It focuses on technical documentation, presentation, booth exhibit, team spirit, and robot performance.
2. What was the theme of this year’s competition?
The theme of this year’s competition was “Incision Decision,” which required teams to create and promote a surgical robot.
3. How are the teams judged?
Teams are evaluated based on various categories, including technical documentation, presentation, booth exhibit, team spirit, and robot performance. Additional categories such as website design, commercial, and T-shirt design also provide opportunities for recognition.
4. How long do teams have to prepare for the competition?
Teams have seven weeks to complete the deliverables related to the competition’s theme and their fictional medical technology company.
5. How can individuals support the ABS Trobotics program?
Those interested in supporting the ABS Trobotics program and contributing to STEM education can reach out to Athens Bible School for partnership opportunities.