Robotics Club Forming at
Huntington High School
A robotics and engineering club is being organized at Huntington High School. Current sophomore Joseph Saginaw and junior Nicholas Sherman are working with physics teacher Judy Pazienza to get the initiative off the ground. The trio wants to "go big" and enter the FIRST robotics competition next spring. It's a lofty goal.
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) was founded "to inspire an appreciation of science and technology in young people," according to the organization's website. "FIRST designs accessible, innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills while motivating young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology, and engineering."
The FIRST robotics competition has been referred to as "the varsity sport for the mind." The competition is said to combine "the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology." Teams of 25 students or more must abide by stringent rules and time constraints. They raise funds, design a team "brand" and build and program robots to execute precise tasks against opposing teams. "It's as close to real-world engineering as a student can get," states the FIRST website.
FIRST competition robots are permitted to weigh up to 120 lbs. when fully constructed, including the battery and bumpers. While the set of prescribed actions robots must execute changes from year-to-year, participants are provided with a standard set of parts and game details in early January of each year and given a mere six weeks to build a competitive robot capable of operating autonomously as well as when guided by wireless controls to achieve the contest's required tasks.
The regional FIRST competition is held at Hofstra University each April and Messrs. Saginaw and Sherman hope to be there with a team of classmates. Robots square-off against one another before a crowd numbering in the thousands. It's an atmosphere that organizers of Huntington High School's robotics and engineering club can't wait to find themselves in.
Ms. Pazienza, who boasts 20 years of experience in electrical engineering, believes that "jobs in the future will be based on technology and a robotics club will inspire more Huntington High School students to consider careers in these fields."
The new Huntington club will apply for a NASA grant to obtain the substantial $6,500 FIRST competition registration fee, but they are also looking for community support to acquire volunteer mentors to guide students through the engineering challenges inherent in the design and construction of a working robot.
Ms. Pazienza and club members are looking for folks in the community who possess structural and mechanical engineering "know-how" and C+ programming knowledge to step-up and lend a hand. Constructing a robot will also require tools the school does not currently have. Those who can help with fundraising monies to go toward the purchase a metal lathe, sawzall, and drill press are also welcome to get involved and join the team.
Students interested in joining the club and adult willing to help get it off the ground and be successful are encouraged to contact Ms. Paziena at jpazienza@hufsd.edu.