Students Showcase STEM Skills at Dow Red Stick Rumble Competition
DENHAM SPRINGS – The excitement was palpable in the air as 24 teams from Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas gathered for the 11th annual Dow Red Stick Rumble Competition at Denham Springs High School. Students showcased their creativity and engineering skills by operating hand-built robots across a series of engaging mini-games.
This event serves as an incredible platform for students to not only display their STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) knowledge but also to connect with their peers in a vibrant community of like-minded enthusiasts. Tracy Hoffman, robotics coach at Fontainebleau High School, emphasizes the uniqueness of each robot, stating, "Everything that we’re seeing around here is what has come from every team’s mind. Because no robots are the same. Everybody’s is going to be unique." It’s a testament to the hard work, imagination, and teamwork that define these budding engineers.
Building Community and Skills
Participating in such competitions provides students with a sense of belonging. Hoffman notes how robotics programs help foster tight-knit communities. "It gives them a purpose. It makes them feel that they have their own little family," she explains, highlighting the supportive environment that robotics can create.
Beyond camaraderie, these competitions offer invaluable life skills that can shape students’ future careers. Hoffman reflected on her former students, who have pursued successful paths in fields like data analysis and electrical engineering. "They actually are able to find who they are. I’ve had students who didn’t know they wanted to be programmers. I’ve had students who didn’t know they wanted to be public speakers because they’ve never been in front of anybody," she said, showcasing the personal growth that accompanies hands-on learning.
An Opportunity for Growth
The Dow Red Stick Rumble serves as an off-season event, designed to bring new team members into the fold while giving current participants a chance to hone their robot-driving skills. This opportunity to practice and improve is essential to the development of both individuals and teams, ensuring they are ready for future competitions.
A Bright Future Ahead
As we look at the inspiring stories coming out of this competition, it’s clear that programs like these are more than just a fun way to learn—they’re paving the way for the next generation of innovators and leaders. Students are not just building robots; they’re crafting their futures and discovering passions they never knew existed.
The AI Buzz Hub team is excited to see where these breakthroughs take us. Want to stay in the loop on all things AI? Subscribe to our newsletter or share this article with your fellow enthusiasts.
