Softec hosting student robotics expo
Softec to give away over $7,000 at 7th annual expo
Mission Prep’s underwater ROV.
– Local technology organization, Softec, is having their 7th annual student robotics expo on Monday, Sept. 28, at 6 p.m. at the San Luis Obispo Elks Lodge. The expo is free and open to the public.
Last year Norcast and Softec were able to donate $6,000 in a combined effort. At the expo this year, they expect to invest over $7,000 in grant money again with the help of Norcast and from local donations. The money raised will be given as grants to local high school robotic programs whose teams will be onsite showcasing their competitive robots and the awards they have won.
“The Softec Robotics Expo has played a significant role in community awareness,” said President of Softec Joshua Erdman. “Not only have we been able to accelerate the adoption of robotics programs in high schools but also increase funding through community exposure.” There are several different robotics leagues, some of which can have budgets exceeding $60,000. “We have accomplished what we originally set out to do, get a robotics program at almost all our local high schools. Now it is time to double-down and take it to the next level. This year we are advocating to have robotics recognized as a team sport.”
Donations to high school robotics can be given online on the robotics page at softec.org.
Also new this year, Softec will have a drone obstacle course where drone enthusiasts can compete and fly their contraptions for the best time. Sign-ups will be taken for those interested in a new Softec drone interest group.
