VEX 2016

EMC VEX robotics programme powers up for fourth year

Life
Martin O'Flaherty, EMC, launches the 2015/2016 VEX competition

14 September 2015

The 2015/16 season of EMC VEX, the school robotics initiative spearheaded by IT multinational EMC was launched today at the company’s Centre of Excellence in Ovens, Cork.

There, over 100 teachers from over 50 schools in Cork underwent an intensive course in robot building for the EMC VEX IQ (for primary schools) and EMC VEX EDR (for secondary schools) programmes.

Over the next four months the teachers, in conjunction with EMC, Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) and Lifetime Labs, will teach the technical and project management skills necessary to design, build and operate their own robots.

In January 2016, participating primary and secondary pupils will go head-to-head in Cork as their robots compete in a fun, challenging display of skill, ingenuity and teamwork.  The winners will qualify for entry into VEX Robotics World Championship in Louisville, Kentucky.

Martin O’Flaherty, principal programme manager of engineering & innovation at EMC Ireland, said: “The EMC VEX programme is a proven initiative that promotes the most engaging and compelling elements of STEM learning. Robotics inspire a sense of wonder in children and teachers alike: over the last four years, hundreds of schools have applied to take part.

“Ireland is growing as a global technology hub. Tens of thousands of technical jobs are set to be created here by 2020, but we face a skills shortage crisis. Industry and government must continue to work together to promote STEM learning so our young people are equipped with the practical knowledge to function and compete in the world’s digital economy.”

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