The world has been taken by storm with AI and the new technological revolution it has brought forth, and Cristo Rey St. Martin students are not immune to this phenomenon. Every Monday after school, CRSM’s Robotics Team meets to utilize the ever expansive elements of development and technology. Our Robotics Club is a testament to the power of partnership and hands-on learning, thanks to our business partner, Abbott Labs.
Abbott graciously hosts our students biweekly, offering a space for creativity and knowledge exchange. These sessions provide a wonderful opportunity for our students’ growth, outside the classroom. From tinkering with legos and beginner-level programming tools, to delving into the intricacies of AI and coding, each interaction sparks curiosity within our CRSM students.
On the off weeks where students don’t meet at Abbott Labs, they congregate in a conference room at CRSM and work on their next robotics project for the week to come. It’s during this time that students are able to create, code, and collaborate amongst one another to further their understanding of robotics and the technology it involves. So far, our students have built Sumo Wrestling robots that are coded to fight one another in a ring, robots that are coded to rescue other robots that are malfunctioning or disabled, and so many more! Alonzo Villasenor, the president of our Robotics Club, exemplifies the spirit of exploration and technological avidness. When asked about his future aspirations, he stated that he was interested in pursuing a STEM career, with a particular interest in coding. “Robotics brought that interest out.”
What’s more, this program creates an impact beyond our school. Recently, our students had the privilege to collaborate with peers from Vernon Hills High School on exciting build projects. These opportunities not only broaden horizons but also foster a community of young minds dedicated to shaping the future through innovation.
Through the support of Abbott and the enthusiasm of students like Alonzo, we continue to foster a generation dedicated to shaping a future where technology and innovation intersect. The journey of the Robotics Club at our school is not just about building robots—it’s about building futures, one innovation at a time. As we look ahead, our commitment remains resolute—to inspire, to create, and to forge ahead in the realm of technology and innovation.