Greenbush-Middle River’s Team 5172 is back at the Duluth Robotics competition! Before I head down to the DECC to give my big sister nod to Elliot’s robotics team, I’m taking a look through my images from last year’s competition. I was absolutely not expecting it to be so huge (over 100 teams?!), to see students taking such ownership of not just their machine performance, but team branding, strategy, professionalism, and pit set up. Can I say this? I wasn’t expecting to be THAT proud of my high school brother! All in all, the schools in this competition have found it – an activity that students come alive for, a team activity that needs members from all interests and strengths to fill roles that mirror actual industry needs and occupations, and an immersion into the expo environment and professional expectations disguised as an extra curricular. And to top it off, they’re encouraging and nurturing those much needed future engineers by giving some glory to the muscles of the mind that will reward students in the long haul. Hats off!

GMR parents know how to find seats with a view.

Other teams are eager to strategize with GMR.

Everyone has a part to play. Everyone is put to work.

Last minute preparations and adjustments. 

I guess not everyone is put to work… 

Doug is a paternal rockstar behind the 5172 mechanics. What kids get the chance to learn this stuff alongside their parents?!

Thanks, Gators, for letting this oldie wear your media pass, get in your business, and ask a million questions! Now, I can’t wait to come see you crush it again this year! Much love.