PEMBROKE — PSRC Early College High School’s RobCoBots team took home the highest award at the recent FIRST® Robotics Competition UNC-Pembroke District Event.
The team won the Impact Award, the most prestigious award at FIRST, which honors the team that best represents a model for other teams to emulate and best embodies the purpose and goals of FIRST. The FIRST Impact Award is presented to the team judged to have the most significant measurable impact of its partnerships among its participants and community over a sustained period of time.
“Receiving this award is very treasured in our eyes because it reflects the culmination of so many years of hard work and dedication that our student team members and committed mentors have poured into the sustainability, success, and lasting impression on our community here in Robeson County,” said John Allen, lead mentor for the RobCoBots.
PSRC ECHS Principal Andrew Davis said he is proud of the students’ hard work and dedication.
“This remarkable achievement reflects not only the skill and ingenuity of our students but also their unwavering commitment to excellence and community engagement,” Davis said.
“I am incredibly proud of all our students and mentors for their dedication, teamwork, and leadership. Your hard work has truly made a lasting impact, and you continue to inspire those around you. This accomplishment is just the beginning, and I look forward to seeing even greater things from you in the future!” he added.
The RoboCoBots will now advance to compete for the Impact Award at the State Championship.
The judges shared, “This team has focused their efforts in Robeson County by reaching out to underrepresented communities in STEM. Through strategic community events, they’ve created opportunities for local youth to find an outlet for science and technology, fostering an inclusive environment."
Hundreds of fans, families, educators, and industry leaders gathered for the FIRST® Robotics Competition UNC Pembroke District Event, where teams were recognized for design excellence, competitive play, sportsmanship, and building partnerships between schools, businesses, and communities.
Held at Jones Health and Physical Education at UNC Pembroke on March 29 - 30, thirty-one high school teams competed for a chance to advance to the FIRST North Carolina State Championship, which will take place April 5 - 6 at UNC Greensboro. At the FIRST NC FIRST Robotics Competition State Championship, teams will then vie for one of North Carolina’s 14 spots—along with the two Engineering Inspiration winners from last year’s championship game—at the international FIRST Championship, set for April 16 - 19, 2025 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas.
“The energy, enthusiasm, and creativity on display this weekend was truly inspiring!” shared Marie Hopper, President of FIRST North Carolina. “These students give me so much hope for our ability to solve really complex problems."
For more information please contact: Marie E. Hopper, President of FIRST North Carolina at 866-347-7801 ext1 or by emailing marie@firstnorthcarolina.org.