Building the Future Through High School Robotics
When the students at Fort Wayne High School launched their first-ever robotics team, the G-Code Generals, they didn’t know what to expect. For many of them, the world of robotics was brand new. As one student put it: “The most challenging part was getting started because we didn’t know anything.”
Yet, they made up for what they lacked in experience in determination. With Symetri’s sponsorship and the support of mentors and other teams, the G-Code Generals discovered that robotics is about far more than building a machine. It’s about building resilience, communication, and a vision for the future.
Turning Setbacks into Breakthroughs
The G-Code Generals’ first competition was anything but smooth. Their robot, affectionately named General Rufus after their school mascot, was unfinished and plagued by overheating motors. The team wasn’t even sure they would pass the inspection. Stress was high, and the clock was ticking.
Then, thanks to collaboration with other teams and sheer perseverance, Rufus came to life. The moment the robot finally worked, the students erupted into celebration. “I was jumping up and down,” one student said. “We all just huddled around and started celebrating.”
That breakthrough moment taught them something deeper than technical skills. It taught them that setbacks are part of the journey and that overcoming them is where growth happens.
Building Skills That Last a Lifetime
For the G-Code Generals, robotics quickly became more than coding and competitions. Symetri’s sponsorship allowed these students to explore Autodesk tools, mentorship, and real-world problem-solving—resources that are not always accessible in every classroom. Access to robotics programs is vital because it levels the playing field, giving students hands-on experiences that prepare them for the demands of a modern, technology-driven workforce.
In robotics, every challenge is a lesson. Students build persistence, creativity, and the ability to collaborate under pressure. They learn to present ideas, defend design choices, and adapt when things go wrong. A few of the students shared that robotics helped them improve their communication skills and overcome their shyness.
The impact doesn’t stop there. Exposure to STEM at an early age helps students envision themselves in industries they may never have considered before. One student reflected on how the program shifted their career aspirations: “It has influenced me to change my career path into biomedical engineering.” Stories like this remind us how critical these opportunities are, especially for young women who remain underrepresented in STEM fields.
When students like the G-Code Generals step into the robotics arena, they’re not just learning how to assemble a robot; they’re learning how to work as a team, think critically, and bounce back from failure. These skills will carry them into college, careers, and leadership roles. Robotics programs give students the confidence to see themselves as competitors and future innovators.
Empowering the Next Generation
At Symetri, we believe a bright future is built by problem-solvers and innovators. By sponsoring the G-Code Generals, we are investing in more than just a robotics team; we’re investing in the next generation of STEM leaders.
This sponsorship reflects our commitment to providing opportunities for all students to explore technology, creativity, and teamwork. The G-Code Generals prove that when students are given the tools and support to thrive, they rise to the challenge—often exceeding their own expectations.
Looking Ahead
The G-Code Generals’ first season is just the beginning. Their journey has inspired others in their community and laid the groundwork for the team to grow. Symetri is proud to stand behind the innovators of tomorrow, helping them turn passion into progress and ideas into action. The future is bright, and teams like the G-Code Generals are leading the way.
