By ISAAC LINFORD
The Progress
The Moapa Valley High School robotics teams traveled to Bullhead City, Arizona on Saturday, April 6, to showcase STEM education at the Bullhead/Laughlin Airshow. The teams represented 4-H and STEM education in partnership with the UNR Extension Office.
The airshow included many vendors, including a large group of STEM showcases. The UNR Extension had interactive activities designed to interest youth. A tent with hoops was set up so that kids could experience flying drones. In addition, there was a shade tent set up for stomp rockets, where kids could build their own air-launched rockets out of paper and tape.
“Events like the air show are a great opportunity to serve the community and showcase 4-H participants’ special projects and passions,” said Kelly Lehr, UNR Extension coordinator for southern Clark County.
Lehr invited the MVHS robotics teams to attend. The event allowed the teams to showcase achievements throughout the season along with opportunities available to youth in STEM.
Jace Newsom, a programmer for Pirate Robotics, created a game for the participants to play, The team set up a small field, and four robot bases were set up in four corners. Each robot had switches on the front and back sides.
Once a switch is pressed, a count is subtracted. Only 3 counts are given to each robot, and once counts are out the robot is disabled. The last robot remaining wins. Older youth enjoyed the competitive activity. For younger participants, the number of counts was increased.
Three members of the MVHS teams were able to attend the event including Josh Linford, Jace Newsom, Isaac Linford. Of course they were accompanied on the trip by coach Bryan Linford. The teams anticipate returning to the event next year.
“In my two years of robotics I have developed a strong passion for STEM education,” said MVHS sophomore Josh Linford who is a member of the local team. “Our robotics booth at the airshow interested many young kids and adults alike. I hope they will look into what STEM education has to offer them.”
