Robotics Team
The Upper Merion Area Robotics Team was established in 2022-2023 (Year 0) with about 8 students. We met weekly, built different types of robots and drones that we had at school. During this time we researched different robotics competitions throughout PA. We felt that FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge) was a good fit. This is a yearly robotics competition for students in grades 7-12. Teams design, build, and program robots to compete in an alliance format against other teams. It's a hands-on STEM experience that emphasizes teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation.
In 2023-2024 (Year 1) we joined the Pennsylvania FIRST Robotics coalition which acts as a vital intermediary between the national FIRST organization and local FTC teams. They provide the infrastructure, resources, and support necessary for robotics teams to thrive. With their support the Upper Merion Area High School registered its first robotics team, Team #24483 with the FIRST organization. During year 1 we had 15 students participate and compete in 3 state wide qualifiers run by Pennsylvania FIRST Robotics coalition. As the year went on we noticed more students asking how to join the robotics team. Our team was facing a constant struggle: funding. Our team relies mostly on fundraising, grants and sponsorships.
Through fundraising, grants and sponsorships Team #24483 was able to secure enough funding to create a 2nd team. In the 2024-2025 school year we added a 2nd robotic team, Team #27817 which has 12 members. During this year both robotics teams established a social media presence by creating a youtube channel @FMrobotics and Instagram account @um_robotics.
This year both teams, Team #24483 & Team #24483 competed in 2 state scrimmages and 3 state qualifiers. At the Eastern PA Qualifier Team #24483 received the Innovate Award for most innovative and creative robot design solution to this season's game. This award qualified the team to advance to the Pennsylvania FTC State Championship.
Robotics teams heavily rely on the following dedicated volunteers to mentor students, providing invaluable guidance in engineering, programming, and teamwork.
Teams Coaches
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Rebecca Brown (teacher) & Bill Alvini (parent)
Teams Mentor Volunteers
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Frank Hutchenson (parent) & Neil Ryan (community member)
Please email Rebecca Brown for more information on joining the team.
