“CNC Software is proud to support the National Robotics League,” says Peter Mancini, Education Product Owner, CNC Software, Inc. “I had the pleasure of attending the National Competition at California University of Pennsylvania in May, and I was very impressed with everything about it.”
The NRL is a combat robotics program from the National Tool & Machining Association (NTMA). Through exciting, gladiator-style robot creation and battle competitions, the purpose of the NRL is to create a skilled, tech-savvy labor force that can meet today’s needs of modern manufacturing, along with the needs of tomorrow. The NRL is designed to engage students in a job-driven, project-based STEM learning experience to close the workforce skills gap and promote pathways to careers in manufacturing.
Meghan West, President and CEO of CNC Software, comments, “At the National Competition, I quickly picked up on three themes among the participants: passion, comradery, and innovation. I have the opportunity to see and talk to our customers daily, and they are looking for people that have these three things.”
Says Bill Padnos, Director of Youth Engagement, NTMA, “We are excited about the capability that Mastercam brings to our program. We aim to spark student interest in manufacturing and engineering, as well as connect students to local manufacturers to create industry exposure. The NTMA’s goal is to address the growing labor shortage in manufacturing that is impeding U.S. economic growth. It’s our job to increase awareness among teachers and parents about the quality career opportunities for students.”
QTE Manufacturing Solutions has been deeply involved in the local NTMA event, BotsSTL for the past two years. Local students have the opportunity to work as a team to build a bot to compete for prizes and bragging rights. The most valuable part is the skills learned that will provide them greater opportunities for their future. Organizations can sponsor teams as well as volunteer to help by offering skills and resources to enhance their experience.
For more information on the National Robotics League, please visit https://gonrl.org/.
