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TDT

Technology Design Team

(Robotics) Volume II No. I

Robotics is entering its 3^rd year at WLHS. At the Appleton Regional we were one of only four teams nominated for the Inspire Award. This award is based on an analysis of best overall team performance. The Inspire Award winner advances to Nationals in Atlanta . The team was honored by being given the Motivate Award. Our goal for next year is to advance to Nationals.

The purpose of this activity is to meet the needs of students who have a

bent for exploring and inventing. A vehicle is designed to compete against other high

schools on a field with goals. Each year the field and goals are different. Every year,

therefore, a new vehicle is invented to play the game. Up to 10 motors and 6

remote control channels are programmed to control the robot. An entirely new part system is being introduced

this year which promises to be an incredible upgrade.

Robotics is a great head start on a future career of great demand. The Milwaukee Journal reported in April of 2008 that employers found Engineering positions were the toughest to fill in 2008. We are trying to match the needs of the American job market and to aim the students towards a career with a solid future. The ultimate goal of the Robotics Team is to help students funnel their creative talents in a way that gives glory to God while helping others with inventive developments.

We eagerly anticipate the new VEX parts system. As an established team we will receive the new system at a 50% discount. We have obtained funding once again from the student managed stock fund (The Plautz Fund). We have also received funding from the Ladies Guild of WLHS. Other sponsors are being sought over the summer months.

We plan to meet Monday to Friday from 3:15 to 5:15 p.m. starting in September.

The JV will participate in the Milwaukee VEX league. The 6 competitions of the Milwaukee VEX League are held at Discovery World on the lakefront. The VEX league championship will be held at MSOE in the first week of December. All new team members will participate on the JV team.

The Varsity will compete in the FIRST Tech Challenge Regionals. The Chicago Regional will take place in December. The Appleton Regional will be in February or March. Nationals will be in Atlanta in April.

For more information log onto thierfelder.wiscomathematics.com ...without the “www” and click on the “Technology Design Team” hot button. We will be accepting applications for the upcoming season during the first week of school.