CATS Academy Boston’s Robotics team, the Griffinators, have won the Design Award during a First Tech Challenge qualifying event.
Now in its third year, our Robotics Club, known as the Griffinators, was born out of a desire to create a hands-on learning environment focused on solving mechanical and coding challenges.
Students work together to design and build robots that they then enter in the First Tech Challenge robotics competition. The robots must be programmed to follow autonomous commands before student drivers take control and compete in two-on-two matches. The competition is designed to develop students’ STEM skills, encourage teamwork, practice engineering innovation, and build confidence to help them succeed.
The team prides itself in welcoming new members with varied skill sets and experience. With a focus on collaboration, students work together in groups responsible for coding, engineering and communication. New members are taught the fundamental skills associated with their assigned role and are given opportunities to develop beyond those basic capabilities during the course of the season through hands-on experience.
Our team’s talents were recognized following the qualifying event, at nearby Canton High School, where they were awarded the Design Award for their robot. This award celebrates the team that demonstrates industrial design principles whilst striking a balance between function, form and aesthetics. By winning this award, the Griffinators have crafted a robot that is both visually impressive and efficient, with every aspect well considered and the design effective with the team’s game strategy. An incredible achievement, especially as it is the second year the Griffinators have taken home this award.
“I wanted to be part of an organization that would need me to have critical thinking, perseverance and patience” explained Valdir, one of the Griffinators. “The Griffinators is way more than just a school activity for me. I am here to learn, explore and lead my small tech loving family to new heights” added Volodymyr, the team captain.
The Robotics Club is one of a wide variety of extracurricular clubs and activities on offer to our students. At CATS Academy Boston, we recognize that top universities in the United States look for well-rounded individuals with a passion for their subject and varied interests. Our extensive offer of clubs and activities gives students the opportunity to keep up their passions from home, try new things and visit new places, while supporting them to develop academically, broaden their skills and enhance their university or college application.
