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Hundreds of High School Students Compete In Robotics Competition On South Coast

High school students compete in FIRST Robotics Regional Competition at Ventura College.

Hundreds of high school students from across California and China wrapped up a mega robotics competition in Ventura this weekend.

Inside a crowded arena at Ventura College, the focus was on the field. Robots -- controlled by students -- catapult balls, cross over obstacles and scale tower walls in this Medieval-themed competition organized by FIRST Robotics.

“Being part of something, being part of a team, cheering for your team. It’s kind of like your baby, you know,” said Christopher Evans, a student at ACE Charter High School in Camarillo.

He was one the competitors who designed Thumbleport, his team’s robot.

“Open my mind to a lot of new career opportunities and a lot of new things that I could study,” he said.

Robotics Mentor Ty Fredriks believes this program inspires teenagers to pursue STEM careers.

“These kids are going to be solving the problems of tomorrow, and they’re learning those skills today,” he said.

Among the winners heading to the world competition in St. Louis next month is a Ventura team with students from Ventura, Foothill Technology, Buena and El Camino high schools.