A Robotics Journey from LEGO to VEX VRC

My robotics journey began in elementary school with FIRST LEGO League (FLL), where I discovered how creativity could be transformed into functional engineering. As a rookie, I was captivated by the dynamic interplay between coding and mechanical design—building LEGO-based robots to tackle real-world missions. My team’s dedication, collaboration, and countless hours of programming led us to win the district championship and represent our region at the state level. It was my first experience merging competition with purpose, as FLL also challenged us to address global problems through innovative thinking.

Fueled by our early success, I transitioned into FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) during late middle school and early high school, where both the stakes and the robots grew significantly. FTC introduced me to metal fabrication, sensors, CAD modeling, and autonomous programming. As a key member of the build team, I took the lead in developing drive systems, modular arms, and strategic game algorithms. The increased complexity sharpened my problem-solving skills and deepened my interest in engineering principles—especially as I moved from LEGO-based kits to industry-grade components. In 2021, my team earned 1st place for the Collins Aerospace Innovate Award and 2nd place for the Inspire Award at the North Texas Regionals, advancing us to the FTC State Championship.