School: Nānākuli High & Intermediate School
Grade Level: Grades 7-12
Teacher: Richard Enright and Makoa Umeda
Driving Question: How do we, as young engineers, utilize the engineering design process; design, build, document, program and compete with an electro-mechanical machine as well as completing the necessary requirements to gain academic certifications?
What did the students DO?
The NHIS Robotics team has maintained a strong and steady pace throughout the year, excelling in design, build, documentation, programming, and competition. With a full roster of committed haumāna (students), they have participated in regular competitions, earned academic certifications, and qualified for both State and World Championships. Their dedication has been matched with a willingness to kōkua (help) by hosting tournaments and building community connections in the robotics field.
- Consistent Participation and Commitment: Students have been meeting daily and competing almost weekly in SkillsUSA and VEX Robotics events, showcasing their ability to balance academic requirements with competitive readiness.
- Hosting State-Level Competitions: NHIS Robotics proudly hosted the State Tournament on their campus in December, welcoming schools from across Hawaiʻi and gaining valuable experience in organizing large-scale events.
- Multiple Qualifications and Awards: The team qualified for both State and World Championships early in the season. At the National Robotics Competition in Iowa, one group earned the prestigious Design Award, recognizing excellence in engineering and documentation.
- World Championship Experience: Two NHIS teams represented Hawaiʻi at the VEX World Championship in Dallas, Texas. While rankings varied, the experience broadened their perspectives, strengthened their skills, and deepened their commitment to the engineering design process.
The NHIS Robotics team has demonstrated excellence in technical skills, collaboration, and leadership, modeling how the engineering design process can lead to success on both local and global stages. By qualifying for and competing in national and world-level events, they have not only elevated their own abilities but also inspired the Waiʻanae community, proving that with preparation, teamwork, and dedication, our keiki (children) can compete among the best in the world.
