Igniting Creativity in Cedar Rapids: The Linn-Mar Robotics Team
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – In the heart of Cedar Rapids, a local man is channeling his passion for computer design to inspire young minds as part of the Linn-Mar Robotics team. With a fleet of 75 eager students, the mission is clear: create the perfect robot for competition, but it’s teamwork and community support that truly powers the process.
Head coach Dan Niemitalo emphasizes the importance of a strong volunteer base for this ambitious mission. “If it was just me, I could probably help about half a dozen students at a time,” he explained, underlining the critical role of volunteers in keeping the program thriving.
The Heartbeat of Robotics: Volunteers Like Jerry Berns
Meet Jerry Berns, a dedicated volunteer who has been a crucial part of the Linn-Mar Robotics team for 15 years. His journey began when his daughter discovered a passion for Computer-Aided Design (CAD). Even after her graduation, Berns felt a deep connection to the program. “I caught the bug; I was hooked,” he shared.
Berns dedicates countless hours each season to spark excitement about Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) among students. “It’s not football season for me; it’s robotics season,” he joked, a testament to the passion he has for the craft.
While the goal of the season is to design and build a robot ready for competition, Berns emphasizes that it’s also about helping students find their place within the program—a sentiment echoed by Coach Niemitalo.
Building More Than Robots: Character and Community
As the Linn-Mar teams gear up for the state championship and even dreams of competing at the world level, Niemitalo notes that robotics surpasses technology. “The strength of character, work ethic, and doing things the right way are just as critical,” he said.
It’s a commitment to hard work and exploration that defines the experience for everyone involved. “It’s about showing up, doing the work, solving problems, and having fun while doing it,” Berns said, encapsulating the essence of the program.
Join the Robotics Revolution
The collaborative spirit found within the Linn-Mar Robotics team highlights the importance of community in nurturing aspiring engineers and tech enthusiasts. Whether you’re an aspiring robotics expert or simply someone looking to support local students, there’s a place for you in this vibrant ecosystem.
In Cedar Rapids, the intersection of education, technology, and community spirit shines brightly through the Linn-Mar Robotics program. With dedicated volunteers like Jerry Berns and passionate students at the helm, the future looks promising for these budding innovators.
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.
