From March 19 to 20, Humber College will host a FIRST Robotics District Competition at its North Campus in partnership with FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Canada.  

This year’s theme celebrates the roles played by STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) skills in the realms of arts and design. Teams participating in the competition will use props as musical notes during the matches, adding an artistic dimension to the challenge. 

The FIRST Robotics Competition, sometimes referred to as "the hardest fun you'll ever have" by high-school student participants, pushes the boundaries of creativity, teamwork, and technical skills. Students navigate strict rules, limited resources, and tight deadlines to design, build, and program industrial-size robots. These robots are then put to the test in a challenging field game against other like-minded competitors. 

More than 30 teams from diverse backgrounds will gather at Humber to showcase their skills, combining the principles of sport, science, and teamwork. Using engineering, coding, and design techniques, students have used methods such as CNC machining, Computer-aided design (CAD), math, programming, and welding to bring their robots to life. The competition demonstrates the real-world application of engineering and emphasizes the importance of community outreach, fundraising, and the creation of a distinct team "brand." 

“As part of our commitment to fostering a dynamic learning environment, Humber College offers a range of STEAM-related programs, and the FIRST Robotics District Competition is one of many outreach activities aimed at attracting high school students to these fields,” said Gina Antonacci, senior vice-president of Academic at Humber. “The competition provides a unique hands-on experience for high school students to tackle engineering and design challenges in a real-world setting, actively preparing them for their future careers.” 

The stakes are high as teams with the highest rankings will advance to the FIRST Robotics Competition Provincial Championship, with the ultimate goal of qualifying for the World Championships to be held in Houston, Texas. 

“FIRST Robotics Canada isn't just about building robots; it's about shaping future-ready individuals,” said Dave Ellis, president of FIRST Robotics Canada. “We believe in cultivating well-rounded individuals ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. The blend of fierce competition with a friendly and supportive atmosphere is truly captivating.”  

This year's FIRST Robotics District Competition at Humber will epitomize a collective pursuit of excellence, showcasing the ultimate sport for the mind. 

Come join the excitement at the North Campus gym for FIRST Robotics.