Cowley Hosts Youth Robotics Challenge

The 6th Grade team from Arkansas City Middle School (From Left to Right) Mr. Harper,  Reese Pieper, Jasmin Martinez, Aria Ripley, Kayla Hernandez, Felicity Dykes, Kyndel Schwyhart, Finleigh West, and Mr. Soule.

Cowley College recently held its annual Robotics Challenge at the Sumner Campus. The 2024 Robotics Challenge featured 15 schools and 30 teams in an assembly code race and was sponsored by Cowley College, Sumner-Cowley Electric, KanOkla, and Sumner County Economic Development. Students worked hard between assembly day and the event to program and code their machines. They came to the event ready to show their skills and put their knowledge on the line.

By providing opportunities like this challenge, students get hands-on experience with technology and develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and teamwork—all of which are essential in STEM fields and beyond. It is encouraging to see educational institutions emphasizing the importance of STEM education and providing platforms for students to showcase their talents. Events like these can inspire the next generation of innovators and problem solvers, and Cowley College is proud to host them.

According to their website, “The purpose behind this Robotics Challenge is to engage our younger generation in the STEM side of education. STEM, standing for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, is an ever-changing, increasingly complex world. In today’s day and age, you will see the influence of STEM almost everywhere you go. From the tractors in the field to the weather forecast on the news, STEM research and education is a vital part of everyday life”(Sumner County Robotics).

The panel of judges consisted of Cowley College, KanOkla, Harper Industries, Wellington, and Sumner County representatives. Winners in the Basic Competition included Arkansas City Team Thing 1 in First Place, Arkansas City Team Thing 2 in Second Place, and Caldwell Team Jaybot 7 in Third Place. For the Advanced Competition, the Winners were Anthony in First, Arkansas City in Second, and Wellington Elementary in Third.

Cowley Vice President of Finance and Administration Holly Harper, who assisted with the event, said, “What an extraordinary event! It's fascinating to witness the dedication and enthusiasm of these young people towards STEM education. With 178 students competing over the two-day event from surrounding middle schools and even a 5th-grade team. These students are so talented and have a passion for their craft. I truly enjoy watching these students figure out the challenges and enjoy the process. Congratulations to all the participants, as well as their coaches and instructors, for their hard work and commitment”.

Hunter Ferguson | Integrated Communications Specialist
Cowley College
125 S. 2nd Street
Arkansas City, KS 67005
hunter.ferguson@cowley.edu