NORFOLK, Neb. -- Building on a successful summer robotics camp, the Northeast Community College iHub team recently partnered with the Norfolk Family YMCA to bring a day of hands-on robotics fun to local youth during a school-out day.
Held at the YMCA, the event engaged around 40 students from kindergarten to fifth grade, offering a chance to explore the basics of robotics, programming, and problem-solving through interactive activities.
The robotics event featured interactive stations where students could build and test various robot designs, even competing in a game of freeze tag to explore pressure sensors and relay switches.
Each activity guided students through hands-on tasks and challenges, introducing them to real-world applications of technology in a fun and engaging way.
Through iHub’s partnership with the YMCA, this program provided students with an accessible way to learn about robotics, even outside of the traditional school setting.
As part of iHub’s mission to promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education in Northeast Nebraska, these events are designed to create lasting interest in fields like robotics and manufacturing, helping to build a future-ready workforce. The partnership with the YMCA exemplifies the iHub team's commitment to making these resources accessible across the 20-county region.
When the iHub opens, it will house a dedicated robotics lab with two competition floors, hand tools, PPE, and all equipment needed for youth robotics teams to be successful in competition preparation.
For those with an interest in robotics who may have missed these camps or after school activities, other opportunities exist in the area. There are local clubs and teams throughout Norfolk and the surrounding areas.
Want to learn more?
If your school or organization would like more information on robotics, ways to partner with the iHub and robotics outreach this upcoming year, contact members of the iHub team, Erin Sorensen at esorensen@northeast.edu or Henry Goeden at hgoeden@northeast.edu.
YMCA Freeze Tag
Students play freeze tag with robots at the Norfolk Family YMCA as part of a partnership between the Northeast Community College iHub and YMCA. (Northeast Community College)
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