Students from across Pioneer Technology Center's (PTC) district recently got a firsthand look at the future of automation during the STEM Robotics Summer Academy. Throughout the week, students learned the fundamentals of robotics while programming Universal Robots (UR) collaborative robots through a series of hands-on activities.
The academy guided students through eight interactive modules, introducing them to the step-by-step process of setting up and programming a complete pick-and-place robotic application. Along the way, students learned robotics terminology, programming commands, and the technology used in today's advanced manufacturing environments.
Participants explored how to prepare a robot task, configure tool settings, create robotic motion programs, operate robotic grippers, communicate with sensors, control conveyors, apply safety settings, and optimize robot performance. Each lesson built on the previous one, giving students the opportunity to see how robots are programmed to complete real-world industrial tasks.
As artificial intelligence and automation continue to reshape industries, learning how robots are programmed provides students with valuable experience and a glimpse into the careers of tomorrow. The academy helped participants strengthen problem-solving, critical thinking, and technology skills while introducing them to one of today's fastest-growing career fields.
Pioneer Technology Center's STEM Summer Academies are designed to help students discover new interests through hands-on experiences that connect classroom learning with real-world careers. By working with the same equipment and technology used by industry, students gain confidence while exploring future opportunities in engineering, automation, and advanced manufacturing.
Pictured in the back row (left to right): Kyson Hawkins (Newkirk), Braesyn Wilson (Tonkawa), Simone Kemble (Tonkawa), Levi Newport (Ponca City)
Front row (left to right): Oscar Gonzales (Tonkawa), Kenna Fitzpatrick (Ponca City), and Donavon Jeans (Ponca City) Not pictured: Karter Carnes (Ponca City)
For more information about Pioneer Technology Center's STEM Summer Academies and career training programs, visit www.pioneertech.edu/page/summer-academies or call 580-762-8336.