Students Prepare for Texas Robotics Competitions
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Early College High School’s (ECHS) Hangar 84 Robotics team is gearing up for a series of competitions across Texas, honing skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The team, guided by science teacher Anthony Cook and students Conner Nolan, Zavian Cyboron, and Daniel Valenzuela, has a history of participation in robotics challenges throughout the state.
Building Robots and Futures
The ECHS robotics team aims to not only excel in competition but also to inspire a new generation of STEM enthusiasts.
The team has previously competed in Lubbock, Amarillo, El Paso, Fort Worth, and Austin, Texas. This year, they’ll travel to Belton on March 7 and Amarillo in early April. Success in these events could lead to the national level in Houston, and potentially even international competitions.
“It’s a team effort,” Nolan said.
This year’s focus is on building a robot with distinct intake and launcher systems, prioritizing innovation and original design. Beyond the competitions, the team’s broader mission is to spark more student interest in STEM fields. They hope to expand their outreach, increase membership, and engage younger students to ensure the program’s longevity.
Funding and Support
Fundraising and sponsorships are crucial for supporting the team’s activities. Collected funds will cover transportation, lodging—sponsored by GEAR UP—meals, robotic parts, and specialized components like KitBot, a beginner-friendly robotics platform.
Sponsorship has been stronger this year than in previous years, with hotel coverage for competitions being a particularly valuable advantage, according to Michelle Huckabee, a math teacher at ECHS.
Students have actively sought support from local businesses and participated in community events, including the UFO Festival. Current sponsors include GEAR UP, the Gene Haas Foundation, and Sparklight grants.
Challenges and Resilience
The team currently consists of five students, with a daily active participation rate of two to three. Membership fluctuates due to the demands of early college programs and students balancing robotics with academic and career commitments.
Robotics presents unique challenges. Huckabee noted the difficulties of competing with limited team numbers and securing school district transportation, often relying on personal vehicles and parental support. Cook added that they’ve faced teams with significantly larger budgets and facilities.
Advancing to Houston would be a significant achievement. “We would be ecstatic!” Nolan exclaimed, a sentiment echoed by his teammates. Cook believes a successful run would provide a substantial confidence boost for both students and mentors.
Skills for the Future
Students are gaining valuable skills in mechanical engineering, electrical wiring, and coding. They’re also developing essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience—learning to adapt and overcome setbacks.
“It’s a real learning experience,” Cyboron said.
The program is largely student-led, fostering real-world engineering experiences and preparing students for potential STEM careers, even while working with limited resources. The students expressed gratitude for the community support that makes their participation possible and encouraged younger students to join the team.
