"Lancaster Eagles Robotics' new robot, the Tin Man, is introduced Thursday at Lancaster High School. A presentation including videos, guest speakers and a demonstration was put on for press, sponsors and students." MOLLY HAUXWELL/Valley Press
Posted on 02/13/2009 3:31:59 PM PST by BenLurkin
LANCASTER [California] - In "The Wizard of Oz," the Tin Man sought a heart from the wizard. Lancaster High School's Tin Man already has dozens, however.
The 43 members of the Eagle Robotics team, together with many more advisers, mentors and parents, demonstrate that it takes more than brains and courage to build a successful program shaping the leaders of tomorrow. It takes a lot of heart, too.
The Tin Man, the team's most recent robotic creation that was unveiled to the public Thursday, is only one physical manifestation of the team's prodigious efforts.
The wider effects are seen throughout the community in their outreach and service activities.
Whether it is spreading the love of science and math, mentoring and inspiring younger students, donating blood or raising money to fight cancer, the Eagle Robotics students demonstrate far more than technical skills.
"You have the heart and soul to change the future," said Mark Leon, NASA Robotic Alliance project manager from NASA Ames Research Center in Northern California. "The thing about Lancaster (robotics) is you bring more than you take and that is the secret to the solutions to many of our problems."
As part of For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, or FIRST, an international organization that promotes science education, the robotics team each year builds a robot designed to accomplish a specific task.
Teams and their robots face off in regional events, with the competitions culminating in the international finals.
In addition, the team works year-round to promote science and technology through community outreach efforts.
The robot at the center of the organization's mission this year is designed to compete in a game called "Lunacy," whose "title surely fits the challenge," team manager Brad Voracek said.
(Excerpt) Read more at avpress.com ...
"Lancaster Eagles Robotics' new robot, the Tin Man, is introduced Thursday at Lancaster High School. A presentation including videos, guest speakers and a demonstration was put on for press, sponsors and students." MOLLY HAUXWELL/Valley Press
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