Warman High School is helping build the next generation of innovators. A team from the school made up of Grade 10 students Rowan Heidel and Braden Schneider won first place in the Stock Robot category at Sask Polytech’s Robot Rumble, presented by SaskTel, at the annual Robot Rumble competition on Thursday, May 2 in Saskatoon.
A total of 56 teams, made up of 130 students from 26 high schools from across the province, showcased their technical expertise and problem solving abilities. Students worked in pairs to construct, program and test robots made from SUMO robot kits. Two classes of competition were offered this year, stock and modified.
Similar to traditional Japanese sumo wrestling matches, the SUMObots faced off against each other in a ring, with the objective of knocking or pushing their opponent’s robot out of the ring. The team whose SUMObot remained in the ring the longest emerged victorious. Following a round-robin tournament in the morning, the final rumbles took place in the afternoon, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.
“Participating in Robot Rumble provides students a unique opportunity to develop valuable skills that include problem-solving, teamwork and creativity in a dynamic and engaging environment,” said Dr. Larry Rosia, Sask Polytech president and CEO. “Robot Rumble introduces students to education and career options in STEM fields and fosters a passion for innovation and technology that can drive positive change in our world. Thank you to participating students, supportive high school teachers and chaperones, and the sponsors who made this event possible.”
Robot Rumble not only serves as a thrilling competition but also plays a crucial role in promoting hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. By encouraging collaboration and teamwork, the event helps students enhance their problem-solving abilities and build confidence as they witness the tangible results of their hard work and effort.
The Electronic Systems Engineering Technology program looks forward to this event every year. Students and instructors actively contribute to the event by assisting with setup and judging the SUMO robot battles. Many of the program’s students had previously participated in Robot Rumble during their high school years, highlighting the lasting impact and inspiration the competition provides.