ROBOTICS

Continued from page 18 high bar and backing up to get in position to pick up a cube.

With all these improvements the TorqueNados went to their next and final competition, FIM Belleville District Event at Belleville High School. These improvements immediately proved useful, and at the end of the qualifying matches, they were ranked 8th in the 40-team field.

The team was the first pick of the 5th Alliance, and alongside Ypsilanti Grizzly Robotics and the Southfield TechnoJays.

Although their Alliance was good, they were knocked out in the semifinals by the number 8 Alliance.

Due to our continued upgrades and improvement the TorqueNados were given the Excellence in Engineering Award.

While falling 7 District points shy of competing at this year’s State Championship the TorqueNados had a season of extreme growth.

“I am extremely proud of all 23 students and we couldn’t do this without the support of our mentors and sponsors,” said coach Nelson.

TPS supports the robotics program by giving both teams a space to build in both the middle school and high school, but otherwise the TorqueNados are a self-funded program. The average season costs about

$40,000 and the business team works hard every year writing grants and asking for sponsorships.

The TorqueNados would like to give a special ‘thank you’ to Trenton Forging for their tremendous support this year.

“When I sent a letter out to all our past sponsors explaining our need for funding, especially with growing our program, Trenton Forging immediately came to me with an offer to match donations. I can’t express how truly grateful I am to the community support we have received,” Nelson said.

Other major sponsors include State of MI Education Grant, Ford, GM, IBEW Local 54, and Smith and Mihas Law.

If you are interested in sponsoring the program please contact Katherine Nelson at kkcnelson2002@ gmail.com.

Both teams will be at student open houses to introduce themselves to new students and are preparing the “candy robot” for the city of Trenton Memorial Day parade!

Varsity