Webb School’s Robotics Team Showcases Innovation at Regional Competition

SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. — Over the weekend, the Webb School of Knoxville’s Robotics Team 1466 joined dozens of other teams at the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology’s (F.I.R.S.T.) regional event, striving for robotics excellence in Sevierville. The competition required teams to design and build robots from scratch, aiming to collect and move various objects while simultaneously defending against other bots trying to push them away.

The Webb team, consisting of 30 dedicated members, spent about two months meticulously crafting their robot after F.I.R.S.T. unveiled the year’s challenge in January. Charlie McDowell, a senior and a seasoned competitor in his third year, shared insights into their brainstorming process. “At the beginning, we weren’t really sure if we wanted to create an elevator or a fore-bar, which is like an arm that swings out,” he explained.

Each challenge offers unique hurdles, and this year was no different. McDowell emphasized the growth he experienced, not just in his mechanical knowledge but also in mentoring younger team members. “I love the intellectual challenge and teamwork that comes with this,” he said, embodying the spirit of collaboration that defines the competition.

A Unique Coaching Experience

Jenifer Lawrie, the team’s coach, celebrated a decade of guiding Webb’s robotics team, though she faced a completely new design prompt this season. Emphasizing student leadership, she acknowledged the importance of both technical and interpersonal skills in overcoming the challenges presented by the competition. "It’s easy to focus on the technical aspects, but there’s a whole lot of soft skills these kids need to develop in this pressure cooker of an event," Lawrie pointed out.

STEM for the Future

Christy Crouse, the regional director for F.I.R.S.T., noted that around 300 teams, with participants ranging from ages 4 to 18, are involved in the organization across Tennessee. The main goals of F.I.R.S.T. are to ignite interest in STEM fields and equip students with the skills necessary for future job markets. “Having fun while doing that is a key part of our approach at F.I.R.S.T. events," Crouse stated, underscoring the balance of competition and enjoyment.

While Team 1466 didn’t progress to the playoff rounds this time, Lawrie viewed the experience as a valuable opportunity for experimentation and learning. Their participation has already secured them a spot at the prestigious FIRST Championship in Houston, which is fast approaching.

The Webb School’s robotics team exemplifies the spirit of innovation and teamwork that F.I.R.S.T. aims to cultivate in young minds. As they prepare for the championship, the excitement and determination of the team are palpable, and their journey serves as an inspiration for other budding engineers and innovators in the community.

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