The Iron Giants robotics team of Edwardsburg High School, a new club focused on teaching high school students real-world engineering and programming skills, is traveling to the state competition in Grand Rapids.

Competitions, organized by a science-promoting organization called FIRST, are focused on educating and encouraging students to explore science and technology. The robotics program also teaches the importance of professionalism and cooperation in the workplace.

The team practices five days a week, for a total of 23 hours a week, to build a robot that competes in a game created by the FIRST organization. Students work with professionals to design and create robots in only six weeks.

“I wish I had an opportunity like this when I was growing up,” said assistant coach Jo Duke, project manager for KIK Corp. “These kids get a hands-on learning experience that prepares them for careers in math and science fields, which is incredibly hard to come by.”

The team emphasizes the importance of acquiring real-world skills and a professional attitude toward life. This attitude includes contributing to the community in various ways, such as getting young children involved in science and engineering.

The team is officially a club sport, so they do not receive funding from the high school, but from local companies. Donations are always welcome, with contributors ranging from community members to local businesses.

In its second year of competition, the team has have qualified for the state competition. This competition features the top 102 (out of 347) teams in Michigan.

The Iron Giants are excited to be among them, considered the minimal level of experience they have in comparison. The competition began Wednesday and concludes Saturday at the DeltaPlex Arena in Grand Rapids.

Unfortunately Duke says robotics is expensive, so the team is always willing to accept monetary donations. Those willing to contribute should make checks payable to “Edwardsburg Robotics Team 5069” and mail it to Edwardsburg High School at the address 69410 Section St. Edwardsburg, MI 49112.

For more information about the team, visit the website at irongiants.org or contact them via email at irongiants5069@gmail.com.