Team 78 AIR STRIKE, sponsored by the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport and mentored by its scientists and engineers, achieved great success at the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) New England regional event held at the University of Rhode Island (URI).

What is FRC?

FRC is a prestigious robotics competition where high school students collaborate with STEM professionals to design, build, and program custom robots within a limited timeframe. These robots then compete in challenging matches to showcase their capabilities.

Naval Undersea Warfare Center Support

The NUWC Division Newport played a crucial role in mentoring Team 78 AIR STRIKE throughout the competition. Capt. Chad Hennings, the Commanding Officer of Division Newport, delivered a keynote address during the opening ceremony, emphasizing the importance of STEM education and hands-on engineering challenges.

Success at the Competition

After a series of qualifying rounds, Team 78 AIR STRIKE secured a spot in the playoffs and advanced to the final match, displaying exceptional teamwork and innovation. The team’s impressive performance earned them the Quality Award, recognizing their machine’s robust design and fabrication.

Recognition for NUWC Engineers

Dr. John DiCecco, an engineer from the Division Newport, received the Outstanding Volunteer Award for his dedicated involvement in judging events for over a decade. This acknowledgment highlights the commitment of NUWC professionals to supporting STEM initiatives and nurturing young talent.

Impact of FIRST Robotics

By participating in the FRC competition, students are inspired to pursue careers in STEM fields and receive valuable mentorship from industry experts. The collaborative environment fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, and teamwork, essential for future success in the workforce.

About Naval Undersea Warfare Center

NUWC Newport, the oldest warfare center in the country, has a rich history of innovation in undersea technology. With a diverse range of departments and dedicated professionals, NUWC continues to drive advancements in naval warfare capabilities.

Overall, the success of Team 78 AIR STRIKE at the FRC competition highlights the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and hands-on learning in inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders.