COSAM News Articles 2024 03 Auburn University Hosts S.C.O.R.E. Robotics Events

Auburn University Hosts S.C.O.R.E. Robotics Events

Published: 03/19/2024

The Southeastern Center for Robotics Education (S.C.O.R.E.) hosted three major robotics competitions in February, bringing 2,500 robotics lovers to Auburn University.

The competitions featured teams of students who spent months designing, building and programming robots on the VEX platform to navigate through a series of complex tasks. These tasks encourage students to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills in a competitive environment, providing a hands-on learning experience.

Two VEX state-level championship events were held on the plains including an IQ Tournament on February 16-17 followed by a VRC event on February 25. VEX IQ is targeted at elementary and middle-school age students, while VRC competes with high school students. These prestigious events brought together 144 teams across the state to showcase their skills, teamwork and strategic thinking. Ultimately, 41 teams qualified for the VEX World Championships in Dallas, TX in late April and early May.

“I love seeing students work together to solve the problems they are presented with in robotics competitions,” said Jennifer Spencer, assistant director for S.C.O.R.E. “Teamwork is a life lesson these kids will be able to take beyond the robotics playing field.”

On February 23 and 24, Auburn University hosted 72 teams for the first S.C.O.R.E. Showdown at Auburn University presented by Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, a VRC Signature Event.

A VRC Signature Event is characterized by exceptional scale, prestige and competitive intensity. The S.C.O.R.E. Showdown served as a showcase for the most talented and dedicated student robotics teams. Competitors came from 12 states to Auburn’s campus. Students battled it out on elaborate playing fields designed to challenge their engineering prowess and strategic acumen.

"We are proud to support initiatives like S.C.O.R.E. Showdown and other VEX events that foster creativity and teamwork while promoting STEM education," said Mary Lou Ewald, director of the STEM Outreach Center at Auburn university. "Events like these provide invaluable experiences for students, preparing them for future careers in STEM fields."

The championships were open to the public, allowing families, educators and STEM enthusiasts to witness firsthand the talent and devotion of these young competitors.

S.C.O.R.E. is dedicated to promoting robotics education and competitions for students of all ages. Through engaging events and initiatives, S.C.O.R.E .aims to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem solvers.