Media Advisory: UND — ‘Bring on the best of your bots’

UND College of Engineering & Mines hosts North Dakota Signature VEX Robotics tourney this weekend in Grand Forks’ Alerus Center

• What: North Dakota Signature, a VEX Robotics Signature Event for middle and high school students.
• Dates: Event will run Jan. 9-10.
• Hours: The opening ceremony begins at 9:30 a.m. Friday, with qualification rounds to follow and continue until 5 p.m. The qualification rounds resume at 9 a.m. Saturday, with elimination rounds starting at 3 p.m. Saturday. The final match begins about 4 p.m. Saturday. See the full schedule.
• Where: Alerus Center in Grand Forks.

* * *

The UND College of Engineering & Mines will host the two-day North Dakota Signature, a VEX Robotics Signature Event, on Jan. 9-10 in the Alerus Center in Grand Forks.

VEX Robotics represents the largest and fastest-growing middle school, high school and college robotics program worldwide. More than 20,000 teams from 50 countries compete in more than 1,700 contests across the globe.

Each year, an exciting engineering challenge is presented in the form of a game. Students, with guidance from their teachers and mentors, build innovative robots and compete year-round. More than 80 teams from the U.S. and Canada are expected to compete in Grand Forks this weekend. Information about registration and event details can be found online.

UND President Andy Armacost said he is delighted the University has the opportunity to host the event in Grand Forks, both for its entertaining robotics challenges and the inspiration the event can instill in the minds of young people.

“We are thrilled to be a proud supporter of this VEX Robotics competition,” Armacost said. “This tournament provides students from across the region with invaluable exposure to careers in robotics, engineering and science. This event showcases the endless possibilities when imagination and discovery come together to unleash incredible creativity.”

According to VEXrobotics.com, “VEX competitions are a great way to expose students to valuable soft skills such as communication, collaboration and time management in a fun and authentic way. The VEX Robotics competition prepares students to become future innovators — with 95% of participants reporting an increased interest in STEM subject areas and pursuing STEM-related careers.”

Aside from the robot action, there are opportunities for participants and spectators to learn about UND’s 70+ degree and certificate programs in Engineering, Computer Science and Geology. The event showcases what the University offers robotic-minded high school students: a top-class, affordable gateway to exciting careers in robotics, computer science, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence and more.

The North Dakota Signature is set to be a boon to the Grand Forks community. According to Alerus Center data, similar robotics competitions in recent years have brought in nearly $1 million in economic impact per event.

Community members also are welcome to cheer on competitors and experience the excitement of VEX Robotics firsthand. Organizers say there is no entrance fee for spectators. Guests are advised to use Door No. 1 to enter the Alerus Center.

Organizers are grateful for industry support from sponsors AE2S, American Crystal Sugar Co., Border States, Black Gold Farms, Cirrus, Digi-Key, EAPC Architects Engineers, Easy Automation, Houston Engineering, Simplot Co., Team Industries, UND Aerospace, UND Alumni Association & Foundation, Visit Greater Grand Forks and YMI Industries.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrew Dahlen
UND Mechanical Engineering lecturer
Advisor for student competition teams
Phone: 218.791.4010

Paige Prekker
Event media contact
UND College of Engineering & Mines
Phone: 701.777.5710
Email: paige.prekker@UND.edu

About UND College of Engineering & Mines: Fueled by immersive learning, hands-on experiences and award-winning programs, the UND College of Engineering & Mines ignites students’ careers in engineering and science. With 70+ degree and certificate programs in Engineering, Computer Science and Geology, students at the College of Engineering & Mines are equipped with personalized curriculums based on their unique goals and interests.