Instead of a snowman, why don’t we build a robot? The Cavalier Robotics has finally gotten a boost and are now up and running for those who enjoy computer science and engineering technology. With Mr. Van Dyk as the adviser, the club has been restored after 8 years of not being official due to the lack of funding and support.

“You are a perfect fit as long as you are dedicated, interested, have some background knowledge about computers to be prepared, and can stay after school once a week. It’s an awesome club, and unfortunately this is my last year to be able to be in it,” senior Alexander Bazzi said.

The purpose of the club overall is to be able to introduce the world of engineering to students who are interested in it. Anyone can join, regardless of your grade level or gender. With many projects in mind, the Robotics Club is currently working on a helicopter drone to be able to bring pizza from the nearest Sir Pizza to the school. Isn’t that incredible? Other than this, the club makes robots for annual tournaments against different schools and districts. Last year, they won first place for computer programming at Florida International University, University of Florida, Stetson University, and University of Central Florida. For network design, the club received 1st place at FBLA Nationals in 2013 as well.

“It’s an excellent group of students. It’s completely student run; I don’t do a single thing to stop their creativity from flowing. These kids sitting in my class after school represent this generation’s future engineers, and it is outstanding. I’m certain that next year will run smoothly with a range of 25 to 30 kids,” Mr. Van Dyk said.

Next year, the club will finally be official with sophomore Jose Rendon as president, and other positions will be chosen in their first meeting taking place the upcoming school year. If you are interested in joining the club, please contact Mr. Van Dyk. You won’t regret it if you sign up soon!

“One of my main goals for the club is to make sure it lasts. I want people that have the creativity and knowledge needed to be able to express themselves and by making it useful and beneficial to the school as well. So far, I have really high hopes and I just have a good feeling about it all,” sophomore Jose Rendon said.

The requirements to join the Cavalier Robotics next year are found below:

• A 2.5 unweighted GPA
• A $25 fee for a T-shirt, equipment, and to pay for the upcoming trips.
• To be able to go to meetings at least once a month. Meetings are usually on Tuesday and Wednesday each week from 2:30 to 4:30.

The Robotic Club found in our school will officially be open to anyone who is willing to join. You may see Jose Rendon or Mr. Van Dyk in room 6210 to be able to sign up. Don’t hold back, because if they can raise enough funds, then they will even build a robot cavalier! Wouldn’t that be great to have our mascot beeping all around campus?