High school students from Curtin’s STEM Outreach Robotics team recently travelled to Sydney to compete in the FIRST Robotics Nationals. Facing off against 44 teams from across Australia, as well as two from Hong Kong and Taiwan, the team tackled a series of complex challenges inspired by an underwater reef-building theme.

The team’s autonomous-based robot design performed strongly, securing third place in the robotics game. Beyond their technical success, the team truly excelled in STEM outreach and community engagement, winning the competition’s most prestigious honour – the Impact Award, which celebrates their ongoing efforts to expand robotics into underserved communities and inspire young people to become leaders in science and technology.

In preparation for the event, 30 high school students dedicated their summer to designing, coding and building their robot, as well as crafting their Impact Award presentation – all within just eight weeks.

Following their success, the team has qualified for the FIRST Championships in Houston, Texas, where they will compete against the world’s best from 16-19 April. The team’s robot will also be back in action at the WA Robotics Playoffs, where WA school-built robots will compete at Curtin Stadium from 23-24 August.

This event would not be a success without the generosity of time and support provided by students and staff in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, as well as the STEM Outreach team, showcasing the power of collaboration and mentorship.