Mt. Pleasant High School Robotics team heads to world competition
The Mt. Pleasant High School Robotics team is advancing to the 2026 FIRST Championship, marking a rapid rise in a highly competitive global field. Beyond competition, the program is building a growing K-12 pipeline that gives students hands-on STEM experience and pathways into engineering careers.
In only its fifth season, the Mt. Pleasant High School (MPHS) Robotics team is making its mark by heading to the 2026 FIRST Championship—joining teams from across the world for the robotics competition.
To date, the team has placed second in the District Midland event and ranked fourth out of forty competitors hosted at the District Mt. Pleasant event. Additional honors received include the Quality Award, focused on outstanding robot concept and fabrication; and the Industrial Design Award, which celebrates a team whose robot effectively balances form, function, and aesthetics.
The squad also qualified for the State Championship at Saginaw Valley State University, which took place April 16-18, 2026. The team now has their sights set on the World Competition which is slated for April 29-May 2, 2026, in Houston.
How it Began
The MPHS Robotics team is considered a very new group in the robotics world, according to team advisor and MPHS science teacher, Ken Schafer.
“Nationally, the first high school robotics team was developed in 1989, with the first competition taking place in New Hampshire in 1992,” he shares. “Our high school team, established in 2022, has experienced remarkable success during its short tenure. We have created other teams throughout the Mt. Pleasant Public School system.”
“In 2023, the middle school established a group,” he continues. “In addition, a LEGO team program was started at Vowles Elementary, which has expanded into another four third grade teams at Fancher Elementary. More expansion is expected with the continued assistance of high school robotics members. The high school roster has 25 student members, nine mentors and many parent volunteers. Team mentors consist of skilled engineering professionals from the higher-education and private sectors and robotics college students who are MPHS team alums.”
Why Robotics?
Students are drawn to the pursuit because of their interest in hands-on learning and creative activity with a wide variety of people.
MPHS junior Michael Tycner was introduced to robotics while volunteering at a Central Michigan University robotics competition.
“After that event I was hooked. I am in my second year with the MPHS robotics team,” he shares, “and I look forward to studying architectural or mechanical engineering in college.”
Mt. Pleasant sophomore Ali Abdelgawak agrees.
“Many aspects of robotics are interesting to me,” says Abdelgawak. “This team allows me to learn about design, engineering, and programming in a hands-on way. It is important for other students to know that individuals of all interests can join the group. It is fun to brainstorm together.”
Additional Awards and Accolades
At the State competition, the MPHS Robotics team was one of 160 teams competing. Each year a set of worldwide competition guidelines are determined. This includes size, weight, the utilized power system, and how the robot performs the required challenges. Teams are also adjudicated on interviews with the judges, which determines the winner of various awards. Interview topics include describing the team’s design and prototyping processes.
In addition to being invited to the World Competition, the MPHS squad was awarded the Team Spirit Award, celebrating their extraordinary enthusiasm and spirit through exceptional partnership and teamwork.
Wold Competition Fundraising
As the robotics group prepares for their next competition in Houston, they are also fundraising to cover costs associated with registration fees and materials. Those interested in donating can do so here.
How to Join a Robotics Team
Students interested in joining a robotics team can contact their respective school counselors or Schafer at Mt. Pleasant High School. Due to limited resources, an application process and teacher approval are required. Individuals of all interests are encouraged to apply. This team is student-led and classmates talented in marketing, media, accounting, fundraising, and community outreach are also welcome.
High school team participation requires a significant time commitment after school, especially during the intensive six-week robot build season.
Author
Related Articles
Students are speaking up. And schools are listening.
The Gratiot-Isabella RESD Student Leadership Community initiative empowers students from 12 area schools to develop leadership and collaboration skills while elevating student voices to better inform and strengthen local education experiences.
Clare wildlife museum preserves Wayne Webber’s legacy through conservation education
What started as one man’s private collection has turned into a public wildlife museum striving to share his legacy while educating about the importance of wildlife conservation.
Reading Month highlights ongoing literacy efforts across Isabella County
With literacy rates lagging across Michigan, Isabella County organizations are working collaboratively to expand access to books, programs, and reading experiences. Their shared goal: help more children build the skills and confidence they need to succeed.
