25-03-2025
Teamwork key to 4C Academy Robotics team's success
ALBANY – The 4C Commodores Robotics Team took home the Engineering Inspiration award while qualifying to advance to the next level of competition during its first outing of 2025 at the Peachtree District Qualifier.
Competing against approximately three dozen teams from across the state, the Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy students not only showcased their technical prowess but also secured the coveted award, which recognizes their outstanding efforts in advancing respect and appreciation for engineering within their school and community.
The FIRST Robotics Competition, an international program designed to inspire students in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), challenges teams to design, build and program robots to complete complex tasks. This year's event brought together some of the brightest young minds in Georgia, and the Commodores rose to the occasion through their enthusiasm and innovation.
During the competition, the Commodores demonstrated teamwork, engineering skill and strategic thinking, earning them a spot among the top performers. Their robot, meticulously designed over weeks of intense preparation, performed flawlessly, embodying the spirit of FIRST's core values of gracious professionalism and cooperation.
The Engineering Inspiration Award, one of the most prestigious honors in FIRST Robotics, celebrates teams that go beyond the competition field to inspire others and promote STEM education.
The Commodores earned this recognition through their efforts to engage their local community, including mentoring younger students, hosting workshops and partnering with local organizations to expand access to STEM opportunities. Their initiatives have not only strengthened their school's engineering programs but also fostered a broader appreciation for engineering as a force for good in Albany and beyond.
'We are incredibly proud of our students' hard work and dedication,' Commodores head coach Darren Hagler said. 'Winning the Engineering Inspiration Award is a testament to their commitment to not only building a great robot but also building a brighter future for our community through STEM education. This achievement reflects the spirit of FIRST and the values we strive to uphold.'
'We can't thank our partners enough for their investment in our school and in our robotics program,' 4C CEO Chris Hatcher said. 'Their support, which includes financial, mentorship and simply their encouragement, has allowed us to build a program that not only allows us to compete at a very high level in FIRST Robotics, but more importantly, provides students with the skills and experiences to prepare them for their careers. We are truly grateful for their partnership in inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders.'
As the team prepares for an Albany event scheduled Friday and Saturday at the Albany Civic Center, 4C officials said it remains focused on the mission of empowering the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers. The Civic Center event is free and open to the public, and the Commodores strongly encourage the community to come out and support their local team.
For more information, check out team_6919 on Instagram, or search for Team 6919 or Commodore Robotics for more updates.
