The University of Louisiana at Lafayette College of Engineering partners with the Lafayette Parish School System to support the Ramageddon Robotics Team

The College of Engineering is excited to announce that we have partnered with the Lafayette Parish School System in sponsoring the Ramageddon FIRST Robotics Team 4336, a group of young students driven by a passion for design and innovation, in the 2024 FIRST Robotics Competition.

The Ramageddon FIRST Robotics Team 4336 was founded in 2012 by Mr. Philip Ryland and has grown to an impressive group of driven high school students. As a sponsor, the College of Engineering will be providing financial support through a donation by Mr. Georges Antoun, Chief Commercial Officer for First Solar. Engineering faculty members will be mentoring and educating the team as they begin their 2024 competitions. Empowering these young minds with resources not only fuels their passion for robotics but also contributes to the development of critical skill essential for future success. 

"The College of Engineering Dean’s office, along with our faculty, expresses great enthusiasm in backing these aspiring future generation of potential engineers as they work towards refining their skills in design, engineering, and innovation," stated Dean Ahmed Khattab. "Supporting this team is an investment that promises numerous returns for the future of the engineering field, and we are proud to be a part of it. The tools and skills these students learn are invaluable and promotes the growth of STEM careers among those that participate.  It is amazing to see what this team has created in the past. I am looking forward to the 2024 competitions. Together, we're building a foundation for a new era of technological leaders and problem solvers," continued Khattab.

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is an international youth organization that inspires and empowers students interested in engineering and technology through mentor-based programs that build STEM skills. The FIRST Robotics competition helps young people to develop creative problem-solving, leadership, and communications skills. Supported by a network of mentors, educators, volunteers, sponsors, parents, and alumni in over 100 countries, the FIRST experience gives participants lasting inspiration and confidence to build a better future for themselves and their communities.

These project based hands-on FIRST competitions introduce the students to engineering and coding in engaging, inclusive, and creative learning environments where students work collaboratively to solve an annual themed robotic challenges.  With strict rules and limited time and resources, the team is challenged to build industrial sized robots to play a difficult field game in alliance with other teams. Teams are responsible for fundraising, designing a team brand while advancing respect and appreciation for STEM within the Lafayette area.

This year’s challenge is entitled Crescendo. See the challenge here→