Area robotics clubs like Sauk Centre’s Robotics Team #7257 are the launch pad for the next generation of inventors and problem solvers. Felling Trailers, Inc. is a proud supporter of these teams. Creativity and innovation have to start somewhere, and at Felling Trailers, it begins with a curious mind and the right opportunities. Today, a good amount of innovation and progress seen in manufacturing is intertwined with technology and robotics.
Yearly Challenges in FIRST Robotics Competition
Each year, the area robotics teams compete in the FIRST (For Inspiration & Recognition of Science & Technology) Robotics Competition (FRC), where they play with and against other teams to accomplish a task. In early January, the teams watch the kickoff reveal video outlining the competition’s details. With a list of strict rules and guidelines, the students begin the research and design process. Through collaboration and communication, students learn the skills of leadership, problem-solving, fundraising (they need approximately $15,000 for the season), and marketing. With no blueprints, limited time, and resources, students work together to build and program their robots to compete. The game changes every season, introducing different concepts of scoring and playing.
“As a manufacturer, we know how robotic automation can impact production processes. We see first-hand the kinds of job opportunities that those individuals with robotics backgrounds can have as workforce members. The journey of building a competition robot is not only about the end result but also about the learning experiences and collaboration within the team. We are proud to support Team #7257 since its inception over six years ago. This is an impactful way we can be good stewards in our communities and the future of our industry.”
— Brenda Jennissen, CEO of Felling Trailers, Inc.
Empowering Innovation Through the Years
The Sauk Centre Robotics Club has participated in the FIRST Robotics competition for several years and continues to grow. Building a robot for a competition is an exciting and challenging endeavor. Each year brings new opportunities for team members, novice and veteran, to explore new and innovative ways to tackle the challenge of the season’s competition. Challenging members to identify real-world problems and develop creative solutions using robotics and automation is truly what it’s all about. Good luck to the Sauk Centre Robotics Team #7257!
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