Marsha Bartulec – Daytona Beach, Florida … The EnginEagles robotics team from Vista Ridge Academy (VRA) in Erie, Colorado, has made an extraordinary leap in just its second year of existence. They competed on the world stage at the Sunshine Invitational, an international robotics event hosted by FIRST® LEGO® League (FLL), June 24-28, in Daytona Beach, Florida.

With more than 11,000 teams worldwide, only 655 were selected to attend a world-level competition this year, and the VRA team was one of them. Even more significantly, the EnginEagles team made history as one of only three Adventist robotics teams to attend a world event for the first time in Adventist Robotics League history.

“Our journey began in the Adventist Robotics League, where we participated in both regional and national competitions,” commented VRA principal Marsha Bartulec. “After earning first place at our regional event and being named Champion’s Award Finalists at the national level, we were chosen as the alternate for the Sunshine Invitational. When the opportunity came to join the global competition, our team enthusiastically accepted.”

Though the VRA team didn’t place at the world event, the experience was invaluable. Competing alongside top teams from across the globe offered inspiration, challenges, and a deep sense of accomplishment.

“This team has shown incredible growth and perseverance,” continued Bartulec. “Their journey is a powerful reminder of what can happen when students are encouraged to pursue excellence with passion and purpose.”

The team’s success would not have been possible without the selfless dedication of the team’s coaches. Their leadership was instrumental in helping students develop technical skills, creativity, and teamwork.

Team coach Richard Gildersleeve reflected, “To go from a new team to the world stage in just two years is extraordinary. The students gave it their all, and it’s been a privilege to guide them through the process.”

Of the five team members, four graduated this year and will be entering high school in the fall. “We’re incredibly proud of their accomplishments and look forward to seeing how they carry these skills into the future,” remarked Bartulec.

One team member shared, “This was a once in a lifetime experience! It was an amazing experience being able to travel and connect with people from around the world.”

Bartulec closed with, “As we celebrate this historic season, we’re already preparing for what’s next. A new team will form in the fall, ready to build on this legacy of innovation, teamwork, and courage. Congratulations to our incredible robotics team—you made history, built friendships across the globe, and made us proud.”

—Marsha Bartulec is principal at Vista Ridge Academy. Photos supplied.