Robotics team

Over the years robotics have come a long way. Those who saw the movie "Star Wars" when it was originally released probably thought the concept was closer to science fiction than reality. But technology has made great strides over the years, and today robots are used in nearly all areas of life. From automobile manufacturing to health care, robots are commonplace in the marketplace.

One local group of high school students is seizing opportunities to learn more about robotics.

Team Gurren, which consists of 10 Scott City High School students, recently competed at the FIRST Tech Challenge Competition in St. Louis. Members from the group raised their own capital to construct an entry. Though they had a formal adviser, the students were the ones tasked with designing, building and programing a robot for the challenge.

At the St. Louis competition the students picked up on even more ideas for their robot from other students. The team plans to incorporate some of these ideas into their design as they prepare for competitions in Cape Girardeau and Rolla, Mo., this month and next.

As these young people move on in their education and careers, they will be better prepared as a result of this initiative. We're impressed with the students' ambition and wish them the best in their upcoming competitions and career goals.