CDH FIRST Robotics Team Competed at Medtronic Foundation Regional

April 9, 2018

Did you know there are more FIRST Robotics teams in Minnesota than high school hockey teams?

At last count, there are more than 200 FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics high school teams in the state. This is great news for students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) educational opportunities and future professions.

FIRST Regional Director for Minnesota, Ken Rosen explains the growth in the state's competitive robotics program, “The FIRST Robotics Competition develops an interest and passion for STEM careers in high school students through a competitive after-school program focused on teamwork, problem-solving, innovation, communication, and collaboration.” 

“These students represent Minnesota’s future STEM workforce who may someday fill positions as technicians, engineers, and scientists at Minnesota companies," he points out.

CDH Raiderbots 

After months of designing and testing the robot, the Duluth Northern Lights regional was an exciting first event for this year’s Cretin-Derham Hall team, the Raiderbots.

More than 100 teams converged at the Duluth Convention Center for a big weekend of competing. The CDH robot ran well – winning 4 of 9 very close matches – and it was a great preparation for the season's final event — the Medtronic Foundation Regional at the University of Minnesota's Williams Arena, March 30-31, 2018.

Team members are "very proud" of their robot and share that they have grown as a team this season.

A special thank you goes out to all the mentors and sponsors of the CDH Raiderbots!

Raiderbots coach Anne Dougherty is already looking for more students to join the fun and excitement. "Any students interested in building some new skills and having fun - please join us! Details on summer options will be available soon."