Western New England University welcomed more than 1,300 high school students, mentors, and coaches to campus for a high-energy weekend of innovation, competition, and hands-on engineering as part of the internationally recognized FIRST Robotics Competition.
Held March 14–15 in the University’s Anthony S. Caprio Alumni Healthful Living Center, the event brought together 40 regional teams for a fast-paced robotics challenge that blends the intensity of sport with the rigor of science and technology.
Throughout the weekend, student-designed robots competed in a dynamic game that required precision engineering, strategic thinking, and real-time problem solving. Teams worked collaboratively—often under tight time constraints—to design, build, and program robots capable of completing complex tasks such as scoring, balancing, and navigating obstacles.
The event, featured by regional outlets including MassLive, Western Mass News and WWLP, highlighted both the scale of the competition and the growing importance of STEM education across Western Massachusetts.
Hands-on Learning in Action
Hosting the competition reflects Western New England University’s commitment to experiential learning—connecting classroom concepts to real-world application in ways that prepare students for high-demand careers.
For many participants, the experience extends beyond robotics.
“The real impact of FRC isn’t just the robots teams build—it’s the intense problem-solving and teamwork skills developed under pressure,” said Zach Chern, a FIRST alum (Class of 2025) and current WNE student (Class of 2029). “Having this competition at WNE showcases that energy and inspires the next generation of the workforce.”
Building the Future Workforce
Since its founding in 1992, the FIRST Robotics Competition has become a global platform for inspiring students to pursue careers in science, engineering, and technology. Events like this one provide a critical pipeline between high school education and higher education institutions like WNE—while also strengthening connections with industry and regional employers.
By hosting competitions of this scale, Western New England University continues to position itself as a hub for STEM engagement in the region—bringing future engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers to campus and giving them a firsthand look at what’s possible.
