WildStang Robotics Team Is On The Move

            The WildStang Robotics Team, comprised of District 214 students from Rolling Meadows, Wheeling and Prospect high schools, is moving its operation to unused warehouse space in Rolling Meadows courtesy of Methode Electronics. For the past 18 years, the team has built robots in facilities provided by Motorola Solutions.

            A leading manufacturer of electrical components used in the automotive, telecommunications and defense industries, Methode Electronics has donated space for the team to build a full-size practice playing field and assemble robots. It has partnered with WildStang for the past two years and fabricates robot parts designed by students.

            As an annual participant in the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition, WildStang’s purpose is to inspire students to consider careers in science, engineering, and technology fields. This year, every graduating senior on the WildStang Robotics Team plans to major in engineering in college. The team is a FIRST Hall of Fame member and has won World Championships in 2003, 2009, and 2011.

            Mark Koch, WildStang team leader, is excited about the move. 

            “Methode understands that to have a world-class workforce and to develop leaders of tomorrow, companies and schools have to provide experiences like the FIRST Robotics Competition to show students what is possible with engineering,” he said.

            In addition to Motorola Solutions and Methode Electronics, numerous other local businesses support the team, including Numerical Precision, Magnetic Inspection Laboratory, Nu-Way Industries, and Palatine Welding. WildStang welcomes additional engineering and corporate sponsorship. If interested, contact Mark Koch at mark.koch@d214.org or 847-718-5639.