(February 8, 2023) After a strong showing, the CHS Robotics team Simply Machines 19688 came away with a nomination for the Design Award in the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Pennsylvania qualifying competition at Lincoln High School on Saturday, Feb. 4. 

FTC teams are provided a specific challenge each year to design, build, program and then operate a robot to compete against other teams in high energy meets that test the limits of performance, efficiency, and endurance as they power their innovations forward. This year’s competition, POWERPLAY, pitted teams against each other as they tried to place as many 4x5-inch cones as possible onto low, medium or high poles in two-minute matches. The higher the pole, the higher the points. Teams have the opportunity to score additional points as well.

Participants gain real-world STEM educational experiences and are eligible to apply for exclusive college scholarships solely available to FIRST participants. Now that the FTC season is over, the students will prepare for a new challenge with a new robot for the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC). The FRC competition takes place in March. To follow along on the team's progress, follow them on Instagram @FRC423.

Thank you to all the mentors who meet regularly with the students throughout the year. Without their support, this team would not be possible.