The Robotics Scene at Gilman: How It’s Evolving

Here at Gilman, engineering is more than just an interest. It’s a sport. Instead of tossing or kicking a ball around, robotics combines the close collaboration of students with the use of technology, creating an environment full of growth and critical thinking processes. The beginning of this school year has marked a momentous advancement in robotics opportunities on campus. A new elective taught by Mrs. Nichols, the Robotics II class, allows students to build and operate BattleBots. They compete in competitions held throughout the year by the organization MACRObots (Maryland Area Combat Robotics Organization), where they go against other teams in exciting head-to-head battles between robots. This course offers an advanced perspective on the topics discussed in the freshman Robotics I course, and is truly a thrilling experience to be a part of. After talking with Mrs. Nichols, it was clear that the sophomores were loving this new addition to the robotics curriculum. “It allows the students to engage with STEM as a team and apply what they already know in a fun and competitive way,” said Mrs. Nichols when asked about the program. “The boys are also taught to prioritize safety in the Robotics lab to make sure we all can have a great time without getting hurt.”

 As for the future of Gilman Robotics, most of it is unknown. However, there are high hopes for the creation of a BattleBots club next year, which will operate similarly to the current FTC Robotics Club and will participate in MACRObots competitions around Maryland. Regardless, anything is a possibility. Will we see the addition of a third Robotics course? A class on how to operate 3D technology and create your own designs? Or, maybe, a computer science course offered right here at Gilman? Until then, we can only remain in anxious anticipation for what is yet to come in the STEM field.