While the Ratchet Rockers were in Knoxville, Tenn. competing on March 29-30 at the FIRST Smoky Mountain Regional Competition, they won the Engineering Inspiration Award. The award was given to them since they showed an advancing respect and appreciation for engineering within their school and community. It also rewarded them for making measurable efforts of outreach in their community beyond building their robot.

“It is only with the support of the Wentzville School District, business sponsors, community, mentors, and families, that the Ratchet Rockers are able to succeed each season,” team mentor Brandy Antonio said.

Since they received the award, the team earned a spot at the World Championship Competition in Houston, Texas on April 17-20. Their spot in the event is also paid for and sponsored by NASA.

All the hard work that each team member contributed is what helped them stand out in the competition. Even though they didn’t win the regional competition, their effort and teamwork was seen and rewarded. Through this award they are able to show their strengths at Worlds.

Match information for the World Championship can be found at www.thebluealliance.com, and matches will be streamed live on twitch.tv.