Rockets are flying higher and robots are moving with more precision as Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District engineering teams are getting assistance from the United Launch Alliance to embark on another successful competition season.
The Harlingen High School, Harlingen High School South and Early College High School teams were awarded $4,000 to split amongst the teams. With the funds, the teams home to put them toward buying new supplies and materials they use in competitions like the RGV Boosting Engineering, Science & Technology (BEST) Robotics Competition.
“Our high school engineering teams are better set for achievement through our outstanding partnership with the United Launch Alliance,” said Superintendent Dr. Art Cavazos. “ Their focus on developing STEM programs across our region is a testament to their dedication to our students’ futures, and we look forward to seeing our teams utilize these funds during competition.”
The ULA provides funds to support Science, Technology, and Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programs at local schools. With the awarded funds, the ULA looks to facilitate an environment that increases interest in STEM related fields.
Their assistance has helped the teams find. This spring, the Harlingen High School Engineering and Technology Club used the funds donated last year to compete in region and state rocketry challenges. Through their outstanding performance, they qualified for the National Finals of the Team America Rocketry Challenge (TARC) to be held in Washington, DC on May 10. Team members include: Austin Wright, Vincent Trevino, Julio Beartiz, Christian Ambriz and Sophomores Juan Carreon and Alexia Carmona.
Earlier this year, the HS teams competed the RGV BEST Robotics Competition. The Early College High School and Harlingen High School South teams took home first place in the BEST category, which represents overall excellence in all categories, and the Robotic Performance Category, respectively. The two awards were the most prestigious teams could receive during the tournament and were only the beginning achievements for both campuses.
In addition to the highly coveted BEST Award, ECHS added the most spirit and sportsmanship award, first place in the Team Exhibit Category and third place in the Engineering Notebook Category to the day’s accomplishments.
It was the second year HHSS had taken home the top spot in the Robot Performance Category. The team was also awarded the Most Robust Machine for the third consecutive year and the Most Elegant Design Award.
This is the seventh year the ULA donate has donated funds to the district’s engineering organizations.
