The robotics lab at Westmoore High School in Bethany, Oklahoma, is buzzing with a level of activity usually reserved for college engineering departments. What started as a fledgling program just this year has quickly propelled four rookie teams to the forefront of Oklahoma’s robotics scene, earning them recognition at the state level and even attracting attention from the broader STEM community. A key component of their success? A donation of high-performance materials from Interstate Plastics, a nationwide distributor of plastic sheet, rod, tube, and film.
The impact of Interstate Plastics’ contribution wasn’t simply about providing materials; it was about providing the *right* materials. The company donated Delrin® acetal sheet, a durable and versatile plastic known for its strength, machinability, and resistance to wear. This allowed Westmoore’s students to build robust, competition-ready robots for the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC), a program designed to inspire young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The FIRST Tech Challenge aims to develop STEM skills and problem-solving abilities through hands-on robotics competitions. Learn more about the FIRST Tech Challenge here.
From First-Time Builders to State Contenders
The results were immediate and impressive. At the state-qualifying FTC tournament in Kingfisher, Oklahoma, all four Westmoore teams advanced to the finals – a remarkable achievement for first-year competitors. Their performance wasn’t just about making it to the finals; it was about the quality of their designs and execution. The teams secured a Tournament Championship and multiple judged awards recognizing their innovation, design, and engineering excellence. “It’s not every day you see four rookie teams all make it to finals,” said a volunteer at the Kingfisher tournament, who wished to remain anonymous.
Building on this momentum, two of the Westmoore teams continued to the Oklahoma State Championship in Tulsa. There, they continued to impress judges and competitors alike, earning a 1st Place Design Award and another Innovate Award. These accolades demonstrate the students’ ability to not only build functional robots but likewise to develop creative and effective solutions to complex engineering challenges.
The Importance of Material Selection in Robotics
Robotics competitions, particularly at the high school level, are demanding. Robots endure constant impacts, defensive maneuvers, and repeated mechanical stress. The durability of a robot is often the difference between success and failure. That’s where the choice of materials becomes critical. According to Christopher Isar of Interstate Advanced Materials, “By working with advanced materials like Delrin®, students gain practical experience in engineering design, manufacturing, and material selection, skills that extend far beyond the classroom.”
Delrin® acetal proved to be a game-changer for the Westmoore teams. Its inherent strength and wear resistance allowed critical robot components to withstand the rigors of competition, even when other parts failed. The material’s machinability also allowed students to precisely fabricate complex parts, optimizing their designs for performance and reliability. More information about Delrin® acetal sheet can be found on the Interstate Plastics website.
Beyond Competition: Fostering the Next Generation of STEM Leaders
The success of Westmoore’s robotics program extends beyond the awards and rankings. It’s about providing students with hands-on experience in STEM fields, preparing them for future careers in engineering, technology, and related disciplines. The program fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and teamwork – all essential qualities for success in the 21st-century workforce.
Interstate Plastics’ commitment to supporting education and innovation is part of a broader trend of industry partnerships aimed at bridging the gap between the classroom and the real world. By providing access to advanced materials and expertise, companies like Interstate Plastics are helping to cultivate the next generation of STEM leaders. Interstate Advanced Materials has a 45-year reputation for quality products and exceptional service, serving diverse industries from semiconductor to food processing.
Looking Ahead
Westmoore’s top teams are now ranked among the best in Oklahoma and are gaining recognition on a global scale. The program’s success has generated excitement within the school and the broader community, inspiring more students to get involved in STEM activities. The team is currently preparing for future competitions and exploring opportunities to expand the program, potentially including mentorship initiatives and outreach to other schools. The next major event for the team will be a fundraising drive to support travel expenses to national-level competitions, scheduled to commence in early April.
The story of Westmoore High School’s robotics program is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and the importance of investing in the future of STEM education. It demonstrates what’s possible when students have access to the right tools, materials, and mentorship.
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