Empowering the Future: St. Thomas Aquinas HS robotics program inspires students to new heights

By Michael Kowalczk
Special Contributor

The robotics program in St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Edison, is breaking down barriers and fostering a nurturing environment that encourages young men and women alike to discover their potential in the exciting world of STEM.

This year’s team is currently in the midst of enhancing its robot as it anticipates the First Tech Challenge New Jersey Central Conference Tournament on March 3 at Kean University, where it will compete in a series of sports-style competitions against other robots. The challenges require the team to develop strategies and build a robot based on sound engineering principles. Awards are given for success in the competition as for well as for community outreach, design, and other real-world accomplishments.

Robotics Club member Angelo Dally ’25 commened on how the program has impacted him: “Robotics has been such an enjoyable experience because we get to create new things with other students who are so great to work with. I’ve learned so much about different tools and techniques, which will be beneficial in my future as an engineer.”

The robotics program’s central tenet is to teach students the value of hard work, innovation and creativity as they prepare their custom-built robot to enter a variety of competitions. Having recognized the importance of encouraging all students to pursue STEM education, the STA robotics program has witnessed a remarkable growth in both female and male participation. Faculty advisor Mr. Dan Shubiak underscores the importance of providing opportunities for all students: “We firmly believe that a diverse environment is essential for fostering innovation and creativity. By encouraging all students to explore robotics, we are equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-evolving technological landscape.”

STA’s robotics program has already made a profound impact on its participants, extending far beyond the boundaries of the classroom. Olivia Rivera, a Class of 2022 alumna of the STEM Program and currently pursuing studies at MIT, reflected on her formative journey: “The most impactful part of my experience with STEM wasn’t so much the technical skills I learned, although these were still important, but more so the environment where I learned them. The teachers always emphasized that making mistakes is a vital part of any STEM project and it was more valuable to turn those failures into lessons.”

The robotics program at St. Thomas Aquinas High School is unlocking the potential of young women and men, shaping them into confident and innovative leaders who will contribute to the advancements of tomorrow.