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JACKSON – Teams from all over the United States and from around the world converged on Houston, TX from April 16 through April 19 for the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) World Championship. One of those teams hailed from the Roanoke-Chowan area.

The “RoboJags” team, featuring students from Northampton County Early College, was a rookie team this year. But they qualified for the highest level of competition by winning awards – including the Rookie All-Star Award – at the regional and state championships held earlier this year. That all-star award recognizes teams that exemplify outstanding rookie performance, community outreach, and embodiment of FIRST’s core values.

Only 14 percent of FRC teams around the world qualify for the World Championship.

FRC is a STEM-focused program where teams design, build, and compete with industrial-sized robots. The teams compete throughout the school year, first at the district level before moving on to regional and state competitions.

“The FIRST World Championship in robotics boosted students’ confidence and exposed them to cutting-edge technology, while helping them grow personally and professionally,” said Grace Smith, who serves as one of the team’s mentors.

“It offered valuable opportunities for networking, collaboration, and learning from teams worldwide,” she continued. “This experience inspired students and motivated them to continue developing their skills and growing as a team.”

Members of the team included Daylen Hicks, Renardis Rhymer, Eason Jiang, Jah’lil Burnell, Erica Jiang, Makayla Goffington, Jacora Turner, Gabriel Atkinson, Jordan Rascoe, and Matthew Jones.

Along with Smith, other mentors were Kemar Dawkins, Marcia Stampp-Brown, Teresa Kagotho, Danyell Cox, and Remy Bess.

While in Houston, the students weren’t just participating in the robotics competition. They also attended conference sessions on a range of STEM topics and explored the Innovation Faire, which featured university booths, interactive exhibits, hands-on games, and representatives from tech organizations. They had the opportunity to meet and collaborate with students from around the world to exchange ideas and learn more about each other.

“I loved the experience because it was so new and interesting, and I learned that some teamwork can carry you a long way,” said Matthew Jones, a ninth grader.

Jones said the World Championship was a lot bigger compared to their previous competitions, and competing with teams from other countries made it more interesting.

He said their goals for the future are to make their robot more advanced and return to the World Championship again.

“The World Championship was an unforgettable experience,” said senior Daylen Hicks. “Competing with teams from around the world pushed us to do our best and inspired us to keep improving. As a senior, it was the perfect way to end my time on the team.”

Hicks said he learned a lot about teamwork, thinking, and staying focused.

“Even though I’m graduating, I know the RoboJags will keep growing. The team is ready to improve, mentor others, and return even stronger. I’m grateful for the memories and all the support,” he concluded.

Jah’lil Burnell, a junior, described the World Championship as more intense than their earlier competitions. She said she got to experience the competition from multiple angles as a part of the drive team, fundraising, and media team.

“I was one of four girls on our team, and it felt empowering to represent in such a major event,” she continued. “I learned how important communication, preparation, and staying calm under pressure are.”

Burnell said the team’s trip to the World Championship was not only a huge accomplishment for themselves but for Northampton County too.

“Our area doesn’t have many programs that make it to this level, so being able to represent our school and community on a world stage meant everything. It showed that with hard work and support, small schools from rural areas can do big things,” she concluded.

Northampton Schools Superintendent Dr. Rosa Atkins said the team’s hard work, creativity, and dedication set them apart.

“We are incredibly proud of our RoboJags robotics team for their remarkable achievements,” she said, noting that receiving the prestigious Rookie All-Star Award opened the door for competing at an international level.

“This honor is a testament to their innovative spirit and teamwork,” Atkins continued. “Competing on such a grand stage not only showcases their talents but also highlights the strength of our school’s commitment to fostering STEM education.”

Dr. Atkins commended the students, coaches, and families for their relentless support and encouragement at every step of the way.

“Go RoboJags!” she concluded.

The RoboJags team was also recognized for their accomplishments at the Northampton County Board of Education meeting on May 12. Board members congratulated the students and wished them success in future competitions.