Jan. 16—MIDLAND — Midland ISD’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) department hosted a FIRST Tech Challenge robotics competition January 11 at the Region 18 Service Center. Volunteers from Midland ISD, Region 18, and Chevron Permian Basin worked together to support 29 teams from the West Texas South Region in this dynamic event.
The competition was a showcase of exceptional talent, with teams delivering impressive performances. The top-ranking teams included:
— Robo Junkies (Legacy High School): 10-0-0 with a high score of 139
— Cougar Robotics (Christoval High School): 9-1-0 with a high score of 139
— Knight Dawgs (Midland High School): 9-0-1 with a high score of 107
— Bodacious Bulldogs (Midland High School): 6-4-0 with a high score of 104
These teams demonstrated remarkable skill, creativity, and sportsmanship, solidifying their positions as some of the top contenders in the region. The Robo Junkies are coached by Bill Cooke, while Cory Calloway coaches Midland High School’s teams.
The action continues Feb. 8, with the FIRST Tech Challenge South Area Qualifying Meet at the Midland Horseshoe. STEM enthusiasts, robotics fans, and spectators are invited to attend and cheer on these talented competitors as they push the boundaries of innovation and teamwork.
Midland ISD Robotics teams, events, and instruction receive generous support from multiple sponsors, including ConocoPhillips, Diamondback Energy, ExxonMobil, Pioneer Natural Resources, and SM Energy. Their contributions play a vital role in fostering STEM education and inspiring the next generation of innovators.
FIRST Tech Challenge is a robotics competition designed to inspire young minds and cultivate skills in STEM, teamwork, and problem-solving. Participants design, build, and program robots to complete a series of exciting challenges in a high-energy, competitive environment. The next FIRST competition hosted by Midland ISD CTE will feature elementary teams on January 25 at Yarbrough Elementary, while junior high teams will compete at Lubbock Cooper Middle School on the same date.