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About Us:
Welcome to the SHIELD QuantumForce Eagles Robotics Team, a dynamic force in robotics and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education based in Piedmont Triad (Greensboro–Winston-Salem–High Point, NC). Our mission is to empower high school students from diverse backgrounds to explore the exciting fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). Experience the excitement of FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), where students design, build, and program robots to tackle complex challenges. No cost to participate, and fundraisers cover competition expenses.
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Diversity and Inclusion: We are committed to fostering diversity within our team. We actively seek underrepresented voices, ensuring a wealth of perspectives that drive innovation.
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Mentorship: Our program is not just about robots; it's about mentorship. You'll have the opportunity to learn from experienced mentors who are passionate about STEAM.
Goals:
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STEAM Education: Encouraging an interest in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) fields among team members.
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Skill Development: Providing hands-on experience in designing, building, and programming robots, fostering skills in engineering and technology.
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Competition: Participating in robotics competitions to challenge team members and showcase their creations.
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Teamwork and Collaboration: Fostering teamwork and collaboration as team members work together to solve problems and achieve common goals.
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Community Engagement: Engaging with the local community through outreach events, demonstrations, and educational initiatives.
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Innovation: Encouraging innovative thinking and problem-solving to tackle real-world challenges.
Join Us for the 2024 - 2025 Robotics Team Season!
Registration starts in August for the next season.
Who Can Join:
High school students passionate about robotics and STEAM are invited to join, regardless of experience. Open to 9th-12th graders in Guilford County and beyond. We also have special considerations for 7th and 8th graders with previous robotics, programming or engineering experience.
How to Join:
Express your interest in joining the SHIELD QuantumForce Eagles Robotics Team by filling out this form.
2025 Season Event Details:
We'll be conceptualizing, designing, building, programming, modifying, testing a competitive robot, and competing in events from January to April 2025.
Meeting Times and Locations:
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Weekly Meetings:
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Tuesday and Thursday evenings (6:30 PM - 7:30 PM)
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Saturdays (10:00 AM - 3:00 PM)
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Locations:
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TBD
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Note: Must have transportation.
2025 Reefscape Season Event Details:
In REEFSCAPE℠ presented by Haas, a new challenge launching January 4, 2025, FIRST Robotics Competition teams will use their engineering skills to strengthen one of the ocean’s most diverse habitats – making waves to build a better world.
FRC Off-Season Event at St. Stephens High School
THOR West
Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024
Time: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Location: St. Stephens High School - Map
3205 34th Street Dr NE
Hickory, NC 28601
FRC Kick-Off Event - More Details Coming Soon...
Date: January 4, 2025
Time: TBD
Location: TBD
District Events TBD.
Cost:
Your participation and contribution play a vital role in ensuring the success and accessibility of these events. We are dedicated to offering comprehensive assistance, encompassing hotel accommodations, lodging, food, snacks, and transportation for all events. This commitment is made possible through our ongoing fundraising initiatives, sponsorships, and generous donor support.
Become a Mentor or Volunteer:
Parents, guardians, organizations, and companies passionate about STEAM and youth development are encouraged to get involved. Volunteers, sponsors, and participants in community outreach events are welcome.
Join the SHIELD QuantumForce Eagles Robotics Team, where we're shaping the future, one robot at a time!
Facts About FIRST
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Inspire young people to create innovation solutions through robotics
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There are FIRST teams in ~110 countries.
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81% of FIRST Alumni Declare Majors in STEM
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83% of FIRST Alumni have Confidence to Take Leadership Roles in School
Our Sponsors
We would like to thank our sponsors for their continued support and contribution to our team.
We could not do it without you!
FIRST Robotics
FIRST North Carolina
NASA
AAUW
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - SHIELD QuantumForce Eagles Robotics Team
1. What inspired the SHIELD Mentor Program to start the SHIELD QuantumForce Eagles Robotics Team?
Our Executive Director, Precious McKoy, is the visionary behind the creation of the SHIELD QuantumForce Eagles Robotics Team. Her journey began over 15 years ago when she ventured into web development within the IT field. However, it was her personal experience as a mother that ignited her mission. Precious's two children started their STEAM journey at a remarkably young age, instilling in her a deep appreciation for the transformative potential of technology in shaping the workforce of the future. This personal experience laid the foundation for her commitment to creating a program that would provide opportunities for young lives to embrace STEAM and robotics. She is committed to ensuring that no young person is left behind in the exciting world of STEAM. Her vision is clear: technology has the power to build the workforce of the future, and she is passionate about inspiring innovation in young minds.
2. What is the team's commitment to diversity and mentorship?
Diversity and mentorship are at the core of our mission. We actively seek to provide mentorship opportunities to underrepresented high school students and aim to build a more inclusive and equitable future for the tech industry and society as a whole.
3. Can parents, guardians, or other individuals get involved with the team?
Absolutely! We welcome parent and guardian involvement, whether as volunteers, mentors, or supporters. Please express your interest, and we can discuss how you can contribute.
4. Where is the team based, and who can join?
We are based in High Point, North Carolina, but we welcome high school students from Guilford County and beyond to join our team. Our primary focus is on serving the High Point community and inspiring young lives who may not have had access to STEAM experiences before.
5. What is the time commitment for team members?
The time commitment for team members involves meeting twice a week after school from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM and on Saturdays from 10 AM - 3 PM. This schedule allows students to balance their academic responsibilities while actively participating in the team's activities and projects.
6. How can organizations or companies partner with the SHIELD QuantumForce Eagles Robotics Team?
Organizations and companies that share our passion for STEAM education and youth development can partner with us through mentorship, sponsorships, or participation in our community outreach events. Contact us at info@shieldmentor.org for more information on partnership opportunities.
7. What is the timeline for the FIRST Robotics Competition?
The FIRST Robotics Competition Kick-off is in early January, marking the start of a six-week intense robot-building season. This leads to an exciting regional Championship event in March, where our team showcases their hard work, innovation, and teamwork. It's a thrilling part of our journey that challenges and inspires our young participants.
8. What is FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC)?
FRC is a challenging, high-energy robotics competition for high school students, where teams build and program robots to compete in exciting games. It's a unique opportunity for high schoolers to apply their STEAM skills in a real-world, hands-on context.
9. How can I contact the team for further information?
For any additional questions or inquiries, please reach out to Precious McKoy, our Founder/Executive Director, at mckoyp@shieldmentor.org or by calling 336-604-5305. We're here to assist and provide more information about our program.