St. Paul’s robotics is an informative group centered on the new advancements in technology and the teaching of robotics itself.  The team, moderated by Engineering teacher Stephen Englehardt, is involved in many projects both on and off the school’s campus.

“We learn as much as we can to try to get everyone caught up, especially the new guys.  The big event is when we go to competition, where we usually get pretty busy. But, the competition is fun, and we tend to always make the semi-finals,” said sophomore Robotics Team member James Pagnutti.

Louisiana’s annual Bayou Regional FIRST robotics competition, to be held in Kenner on Mar. 21-23, 2013, is the main headliner for schools around the state.  Teams put their freshly designed robots to the test and have them take part in various activities.  However, each year the theme is something different, so teams must be ready to create whatever is needed.  The goal of the competition is not only to win, but also to bring in sponsors for the team’s school.

“You can never be sure what to expect; we kind of just go moment-to-moment and hope for the best,” said sophomore team member Grant Holmes.

Apart from competition, the robotics team creates fun gadgets to be used at events in school.  The t-shirt cannon, created by the team, may make appearances at some of the St. Paul’s football games at Hunter Stadium.

The club offers opportunities for anyone who is interested in the science behind robotics, engineering, or has just always wanted to say they created a robot. Those interested should contact Stephen Englehardt by email, stephene@stpauls.com, or attend a scheduled meeting in either the Robotics room (208) or Engelhardt’s Engineering room (207) in LaSalle Hall.