The East Allegheny Robotics team is a dynamic group of students, ranging from 7th to 12th grade, who come together to tackle complex challenges in the world of robotics. This diverse team is made up of students with a wide range of skills, backgrounds, and interests, all working towards the common goal of designing and building innovative robots.

Throughout the 2024-25 season, the team worked in specialized sub-teams, each focused on different aspects of the robotics competitions they entered. Each sub-team was responsible for creating its own robot, employing engineering, programming, electrical work, and strategy to design, build, and optimize their robots for competition. Whether it was building a robot for the VEX Robotics competition or crafting underwater vehicles for SeaPerch, every student contributed in their own unique way, learning essential engineering principles along the way.

VEX Robotics: "High Stakes"

This year, the VEX Robotics competition centered around the theme of "High Stakes." The game featured multiple phases, beginning with the 15-second autonomous period, where robots followed pre-programmed instructions. Points were awarded to the team with the most points at the end of this period. The primary goal was to manipulate rings and place them on mobile stakes in either a positive or negative corner of the field. Additional points could be earned by climbing a ladder at the end of the match.

Building a robot to compete in "High Stakes" posed numerous challenges. Students needed to balance speed and strength in their designs, ensuring their robot could score quickly without being easily pushed around. The process required problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork, with students often adjusting their designs mid-build to meet challenges and ensure smooth performance.

SeaPerch: A Dive Into Underwater Robotics

While VEX Robotics focused on traditional challenges, SeaPerch introduced a completely different set of obstacles. SeaPerch robots are designed to navigate underwater obstacle courses and complete mission challenges. This year's mission, "Coral Restoration," required students to build robots capable of removing invasive species from an underwater reef and relocating them to safer areas. An essential skill for SeaPerch was ensuring the robots maintained neutral buoyancy, preventing them from floating too much or sinking.

SeaPerch demanded significant electrical work, including soldering and waterproofing motors in wax. Students also had to design robots that could interact with the underwater environment, like picking up and moving sea creatures. Strong communication within the team was crucial for success, as students worked together to overcome the unique challenges of operating in an underwater environment.

Real-World Skills and Future Success

The robotics program equips students with valuable skills, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity—essential for success in any career. It also provides hands-on experience with various tools and techniques, preparing students for college or trade school.

Through tackling complex challenges, students develop resilience, learning to overcome setbacks and persevere. The sense of accomplishment from seeing their robots succeed in competitions will serve them well in their future careers.

East Allegheny Robotics has consistently achieved success, with at least one sub-team qualifying for the VEX state competition each year. This year was particularly successful, with the team earning three trophies and performing strongly in SeaPerch.

Mentorship and Community Support

The success of East Allegheny Robotics is also due to the support of mentors and faculty. Bettis, a local naval nuclear engineering firm, provides expertise for the SeaPerch sub-team, offering students insight into the complexities of underwater robotics. Faculty leaders Holly Spallone, Marcie Sippey, Josh Miller, and Kathy Chenot guide the students through the VEX and SeaPerch challenges, providing crucial support throughout the learning and building process.

Community support plays a key role in the team’s success, especially when it comes to securing the necessary parts and materials. The Turtle Creek Valley Rotary Club became a sponsor this year, helping to fund the team’s efforts.

Meet the Team

This year’s team includes senior Reily Fenters, juniors Corey Guyer, Ian Miller, and Sheldon Stewart, sophomores Ana Lucas and Mason Osterritter, and freshman Coen Miller. Junior high students—8th graders Erik Indrunas, Gavin Grant, Ca'Meer Murphy, and Jahrome Santiago Ortiz, along with 7th graders Aiden Cosby, Laneare Mitchell, and Nate Newman—also contributed significantly to the team’s success.

As the season wraps up, the East Allegheny Robotics team looks forward to even greater achievements in the future. With a dedicated group of students, coaches, and mentors, the team is prepared for the exciting challenges that lie ahead in the next season.