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Elementary and middle school robotics teams from 11 states and 2 Canadian provinces gathered in LaGrange, GA, from December 17–20 to compete in the Hyundai Presents the SCORE Showdown at Great Wolf Lodge. This VEX Robotics Competition Signature Event showcased 116 of the most talented and dedicated student robotics teams. Students battled on elaborate playing fields designed to challenge their engineering skills and strategic thinking after countless hours of practice, engineering redesign, and team collaboration.

The competition was hosted by the Southeastern Center of Robotics Education (SCORE) at Auburn University, which aims to foster robotics education and promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA) and SCORE share an ongoing partnership to provide robotics education opportunities, helping students increase their interest in STEM subjects and careers. These initiatives aim to develop the future workforce for highly skilled jobs in industries supported by HMMA and other advanced manufacturers.

Signature events are a unique type of competition developed by the Robotics Education and Competition (REC) Foundation, that bring VEX robotics teams from around the world together to compete for a chance to attend the VEX World Competition. These events are known for their scale, prestige, and competitive intensity. The REC foundation strives to create a future where every student designs and innovates as part of a team, overcomes failure, perseveres, and emerges confident in their ability to meet global challenges. Through sustainable, affordable and accessible robotics programs, the REC Foundation is inspiring students, one robot at a time.

“Educational and competitive robotics help children develop the value of hard work, teamwork, and creativity, while fostering curiosity and critical thinking,” said Matthew Buckley, a program administrator at SCORE and event director. “We hope events like the SCORE Showdown will expose children to STEM at an early age.”

One competitor that has been influenced through robotics is Emma Kim, 14, from South Forsyth Middle School. “I have been interested in engineering, since I was young. When I had the chance to join a robotics team I jumped on it. I am so glad to be here and meet new people who share my interests.”

The event was open to the public, allowing families, educators, and STEM enthusiasts to witness firsthand the talent and dedication of these young competitors.

The recipient of the Sportsmanship Award was the four-member Otwell Middle School team from Cumming, GA. The team was praised for their exemplary cooperation. Vihaan, age 12, remarked, “Robotics helped me learn about teamwork. When you work together, you achieve better outcomes.” Cameron, 13, also from Otwell Middle School, added, “Robotics has helped me grow as a person and prepare for my future career. I’m excited to go to school every day to work with my team.”

Their coach, Tony Collins, who has been involved in robotics for ten years, said, “Robotics provides experiences that students can’t find in the classroom. It’s a wonderful outlet for advanced minds to make crucial connections that prepare them for the future. I love seeing students find their place and people.”

The SCORE Showdown also served as a celebratory occasion for HMMA to witness firsthand the remarkable impact of its educational investments and partnerships, which help nurture a diverse and skilled future workforce.