Robotics team returns from world championships

For the third year in a row, the Camas-Washougal Robotics Team has competed at the world championships.

FIRST Robotics Team 2471, or “Team Mean Machine,” as it’s known, has had a successful season, winning first place alliance honors at both Portland and Spokane FIRST Robotics competitions during March and April.

The team also brought home awards for team imagery, safety and quality. Adding to that success, team members recently returned from the FIRST Robotics (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) World Championships in St. Louis, Mo. Students from Camas, Washougal and Hokinson high schools participate on the team.

“Robotics provides a unique environment to learn while working with experienced mentors from industry,” said Debbie Lindy, team publicity chairwoman.

“Each year students must imagine, design, build, program and bring to life a machine to compete in a new game challenge.”

The 2013 game involved gathering and throwing Frisbee discs across a 50 foot playing field.

Their robot, “Odd Job,” ran into a few challenges, but the team pushed onward.

“The infectious spirit and dedication of the team is showcased through their work with the robot, community involvement with Ronald McDonald House and a commitment to foster STEM education,” Lindy said.

During competitions and practices, students work through technical challenges while running their own small high tech company.

Highlights at the world championship included making friends with Team Israel, and having a team from Mexico make up a cheer for them.

For information about the team or FIRST Robotics programs, browse www.team2471.org.