Georgia highschoolers take part in Dalton robotics competition

DALTON, Ga. (WDEF) – The City of Dalton is hosting the GeorgiaFIRST Robotics Competition this weekend. It began on Thursday, March 7, and will continue through Saturday, March 9. 

More than 30 teams are participating in this competition.

GeorgiaFIRST Robotics, which began in 1999, is a STEAM-focused nonprofit organization that engages students of all ages.

“Not just the kids that are participating, but anyone who walks through those doors in this greater Dalton area. Just to see what we are about and how they can get involved,” said Connie Haynes, CEO of GeorgiaFIRST Robotics. “Either as a mentor, a coach, a volunteer or get their own kids involved on a team.”

The robotics teams provide a pathway option for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEAM) students.

Students take eight weeks to build their robots and once completed, the robots can weigh up to 120 pounds.

“These robots are all built from a common kit, but each team puts their own personal touch on their robot to compete on a competition field and throughout the competition season in Georgia,” Haynes said. 

Giselle Rodriguez, a senior at Northwest Whitfield, says robotics helped her with opportunities after high school.

“What FIRST Robotics done for me is that it has opened opportunities for me and allowed me to see that there is a future after high school. And it introduced me to engineering,” said Rodriguez.

While the competition helps students with engineering, it also provides real-life education on a variety of topics.

“FIRST has something for everyone. You can be on your team and be a part of the drive team, the design team, and the fabrication team. But you can also do marketing, business and outreach. We have something for everyone. What we are truly building is our leaders for the community and the greater State of Georgia,” Haynes concluded.