What is Competitive Robotics?

Posted on August 22, 2026August 24, 2026 by Brittany Schellin

If you’ve browsed our website or follow us on our socials, especially now as our season gets underway, you might have seen the phrase competitive robotics thrown around. But what exactly does it mean?

The broad strokes: Participants build and program robots to complete certain challenges. And at the actual competitions, they can showcase what they’ve been working on while competing with robots.

And the term “competing” is used pretty loosely here.

Combat vs Competitive

While they sound similar, combat and competitive robotics aren’t the same thing. Yes, they both run like sporting events with complex machines instead of human athletes. And yes, it’s a way to show off technical and engineering skills along with a person’s understanding of math and science. But there are key differences.

Fairyweight combat robotics match from the 2025 MITEE Gobble Squabble.

In combat robotics, you’re building a robot to face off against another robot directly. There are different weight classes of combat robotics — like fairyweight (150 grams), antweight (1 lb), beetleweight (3 lb), sportsman (12 lb), featherweight (30 lb), etc. Along the Colorado Front Range, you can typically find fairyweight, antweight, and beetleweight class competitions. The design focus is durability, destruction, kinetic energy, and/or speed when building the robot. Think BattleBots™. Plus, oftentimes, the robots are controlled remotely by someone during the fight. Usually in a fully enclosed field for safety from flying pieces, fires, or battery leaks. As you probably figured out…destruction can and will happen.

FIRST Tech Challenge 2026 DECODE game challenge match held in Manitou Springs.

On the other hand, in game challenge competitive robotics, you’re getting the robot to complete a specific task to gain points or move further along in an obstacle course. While constructing your machine, you might be more focused on precision, complex programming, and coding. Ensuring the robot can function autonomously with precise movements (through sensors, vision, etc.) may also be more important in competitive robotics.

Some examples of what a challenge could be are:

The robot must race along a line on the floor without wandering off
The robot must sort or stack specific objects
The robot must navigate a maze independently

When competition day rolls around, the team will bring their robot to the venue and demonstrate its capabilities in the assigned challenge(s). Points can be awarded based on a number of criteria. For example, whether and if a robot completes the challenge, completing more complex actions, and more.

Why It Matters

Competitive robotics can serve as a gateway for many students to learn more about the STEM field outside of a classroom. And for adults, it’s a great way to keep engaging in STEM and keep the mind active. Plus, it’s just plain fun! You can geek out, get first-hand experience in robotics, and connect with others who have similar interests.

It’s an opportunity to explore and gain more experience in:

Programming (with programming languages like Java, Python, C++)
Engineering
Mathematics
Physics
Scientific Principles
Technology Literacy

At the same time, participants can learn soft skills to take into any career like teamwork, communication, gracious professionalism, problem-solving under pressure, project management, critical thinking, and more.

Corey, Team Captain of the Bionic Sharks FTC Team 19541.

How You Can Get Involved

If you’re a high school student looking for a team to join, you don’t have to look far. Monumental Impact has its own team, the Bionic Sharks! They compete in the FTC and are currently welcoming new members for the BioBuzz season. Their next FTC Orientation is August 26th, and the Game Reveal will happen on September 12th.

There are also many opportunities for all ages to compete in Combat Robotics across Colorado’s Front Range and nationally. A good source for finding events is RobotCombatEvents.com.

For high school students, college students, and adults looking to collaborate and share stories with other like-minded individuals, Monumental Impact hosts a Combat Robotics Club that meets twice a month.

Individuals not interested in fully damaging their robots in matches can also compete in the newly released Open Robotics Competition (ORC).

ORC is similar to FTC in that game challenges are released each year and include 2-team alliances. The event, though, involves a smaller field and robots, which also lowers the cost of entry (helping to make it more accessible for anyone interested in competing).

And if the timing to get going just isn’t happening this fall, Monumental Impact will be hosting their 6th Annual MITEE Gobble Squabble, where you can see combat robotics, FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC), Open Robotics Competition (ORC), and more at a showcase of robotics and technology in November.

Meet Our Community: Corey

Posted on June 26, 2026August 24, 2026 by Brittany Schellin

Corey’s first introduction to Monumental Impact was at our booth at a July 4th event four years ago, and when we, in collaboration with D38’s Bearbotics, reached out to his school, Bear Creek Elementary School, to start a FLL (FIRST LEGO League) team. Though he couldn’t join the makerspace quite yet — he was too young at the time — Monumental Impact was in the back of his mind as he grew older. Until eventually, he was able to join our robotics program when he entered high school.

Now, Corey serves as the FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge) Captain of the Bionic Sharks. He manages the team along with organizing events, outreach initiatives, and, of course, building and programming robots for FTC competitions.

LEGO and Python and Java…

Corey’s first introduction to robotics was his elementary school’s FLL program. He got his first taste of what competitive robotics was all about. Corey and his team even won a qualifier, which gave them a Golden Ticket to the State Championship! From then on, he was hooked.

You might be asking yourself, “What is competitive robotics?” Put simply, teams work together to build a robot to do certain gamified tasks and present their journey. The task that needs to be accomplished depends on the competition and season — it’s always changing, which is part of the fun!

“I like seeing progress building up and working through obstacles to get everything together.”

Throughout elementary, middle, and now high school, Corey has gained more experience in building and programming. In 6th grade, he learned Python and began exploring other programming languages. He’s now going into his 3rd year competing in the FTC program. The reason he’s stuck with competitive robotics and programming for so long? He enjoys driving the robots he’s helped create and seeing how things work.

Competing with Monumental Impact

While competing with Monumental Impact’s team in the FTC wasn’t his first foray into competitive robotics, Corey has learned more about what goes into building a robot, leading a team, and programming (specifically JAVA) during his time here.

With access to the tools in our makerspace, along with mentors to help guide him and the team, Corey was more easily able to build the competitive robot he and the team wanted to. His favorite project so far involves Sharkbyte, a robot he helped develop that made it to the Colorado State FTC Championship last year (it even went undefeated against several opponents)!

Corey is also involved in a new competition the Monumental Impact community is launching with others in the Colorado Frontage called the Open Robotics Competition (ORC). He sees this new game and robot format as a great learning opportunity — for himself and his new recruits to the Bionic Sharks.

Beyond robotics, Corey is also learning key skills for his future: leadership, management, communication, planning and organizing, even fundraising! Through his efforts, Corey makes sure his team is the best it can be. He hopes that more people join the program and experience everything competitive robotics, and Monumental Impact, has to offer. Because it’s not just about developing cool technology, it’s an opportunity to grow as a person.

“It is not just building the robots and competing, it includes many skills like working with a team and creating something that is functionally [competitive].”

To the future

Ultimately, Corey is striving towards a future in computer science. He hopes to keep working in robotics and learn more about how artificial intelligence can improve his builds. He also hopes to get more of the younger generations interested in STEM and competitive robotics. More importantly, it’s FUN. As Corey so aptly put it: “Having a hobby and taking some time where you can do your own thing and not stress about life is very important.”

To that end, Corey is preparing for the next FTC season, BioBuzz, with its Game Reveal in early September. He’s currently leading fundraising and recruitment efforts to help keep the team going. This includes planning scrimmages and demonstrations with other teams.

If this sounds like something you might be interested in, Corey is also helping out at our booth at that same July 4th event he found Monumental Impact at all those years ago. You’ll be able to see a demonstration with a robot and learn more about FTC, ORC, and Monumental Impact.

Or contact us and let us know you’re interested!

Maker Spotlight: Mike Hinkle – A Lifetime of Creativity and Curiosity

Posted on November 3, 2025August 24, 2026 by admin

Maker Spotlight: Mike Hinkle – A Lifetime of Creativity and Curiosity

Our community shines because of makers like Mike Hinkle — a mentor and lifelong learner whose creativity and curiosity continue to spark innovation at Monumental Impact.

Mike recently wrapped up an incredibly busy build cycle, preparing robots across three combat robotics weight classes — Beetleweight, Plastic Antweight, and Fairyweight — along with a robot for the RIVAL Robotics League. His workshop has been alive with the hum of tools, the buzz of testing, and the spark of innovation as he balances design, fabrication, and mentorship.

Since August, Mike has been guiding four new combat roboticists through our Combat Robotics Starter Program, helping them bring their custom robot designs to life. Under his mentorship, these students have learned how to design, build, and test their creations — skills they’ll put to the test when they compete at our 5th Annual MITEE Gobble Squabble on Saturday, November 22nd at UCCS.

Mike also mentors our FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Team 19541 – the Bionic Sharks, teaching mechanical fundamentals, game strategy, and build planning. He brings a thoughtful balance of experience and encouragement, helping students grow their technical skills while fostering teamwork and creativity.

Beyond the makerspace, Mike extends his love for discovery to the broader community through Maker Moments: Creativity & Curiosity, a hands-on session he leads at Silver Key’s Tri-Lakes Activity Center. Through these sessions, he helps people of all ages reconnect with the joy of making — reminding us that creativity is one of life’s most joyful experiences. It’s something we can discover, rediscover, and celebrate throughout our lives.

Mike’s story as a maker stretches back many years, including his early work with Techno Chaos, where he helped families and students explore technology and creativity together. You can learn more about his journey at techno-chaos.com/about-us/mike-hinkle.

Mike embodies the spirit of Monumental Impact: lifelong learning, mentorship, and the power of creativity to connect people. Whether guiding a student team, mentoring new roboticists, or leading community workshops, he reminds us that making isn’t just about the final product — it’s about the curiosity, collaboration, and confidence we gain along the way.

Final touches! Mike prepares his RIVAL Robotics League bot at the Colorado School of Mines scrimmage.

Volunteer for the 5th Annual Gobble Squabble!

Posted on October 27, 2025August 24, 2026 by Jeanette Breton

🦃 Volunteer for the 5th Annual Gobble Squabble!

What: The MITEE Gobble Squabble
When: Saturday, November 22nd, 2025
Where: Berger Hall, UCCS
Hosted by: Monumental Impact & University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS)

Ready to Volunteer? Scan or Click

If you are having problems volunteering through the link above, you can also volunteer through the steps provided in the following link.

The Gobble Squabble returns for its 5th year — a day that celebrates innovation, competition, and community collaboration! This event brings together makers, students, and enthusiasts for three exciting experiences under one roof:

FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Scrimmage – Student robotics teams test and refine their designs before the competition season.
Combat Robotics: “Robot Chaos” – Builders battle it out with custom combat robots.
Robotics & Technology EXPO (*NEW)– Exhibits from UCCS clubs and area organizations showcasing technology, engineering and robotics projects.

Everything is powered by volunteers, and we’d love to have you on the team! No worries if this is your first time at such an event. Let us know and we will help you get up to speed!

🛠️ Event-Wide Volunteer Roles

A few key positions help keep everything running across all Gobble Squabble programs:

Volunteer Check-In – Greet and register volunteers.
Pit Administration / Team Check-In – Welcome teams and get them settled.
Emcee – Keep the crowd engaged and informed.
Event Photographer & Media – Capture memorable moments throughout the day. If not able to do the full day, we have split this with two volunteers into a morning and afternoon.
Safety Attendant – Oversee pit and competition safety, especially with attendees wanting to get close to the action or into the pit area.
Accommodations Coordinator – help with food area, accessibility and quiet spaces.
Assign Me As Needed – Flexible volunteers ready to help wherever needed most!
Field Setup / Takedown Crew – Assemble and / or disassemble the FTC and Combat Robotics fields. [Field setup is scheduled to occur between 4pm to 6pm on Friday.]
Load-In / Load-Out Crew – Transport and get field / team components into Berger Hall in the morning and out of Berger Hall in the late afternoon. Volunteers can ask to help either in the morning or afternoon.

🤖 FTC Scrimmage Volunteer Opportunities

Support high school / middle school student robotics teams as they prepare for competition season!
Roles include:

Roles primarily in the morning:

Mock Judging Coordinator & Judges – Conduct practice interviews to prepare students for judging on their presentation and portfolio. [Mock Judging Panels are scheduled to occur between 8:30am to 10:30.]
Inspectors – Verify robot safety and compliance for teams to participate in the scrimmage matches. [Inspectors are typically active between 8am to 11am.]
Control System Advisor / FIRST Technical Advisor – help teams with their robot communications on and off the field.

Roles that start around 10:30am after inspections and mock judging are completed:

Referees & Scorekeepers – Learn the FTC DECODE game and play a crucial role in the match play action for the scrimmage. [Referees & Scorekeepers are typically active between 10:30am to 3pm.]
Game Announcer – Keep the crowd engaged and informed.
Lead Queuer / Queuers – Keep scrimmage matches on schedule and teams moving smoothly.
Field Resetter / Field Supervisor – Reset and maintain match fields.

🎓 Training is provided by FIRST for FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) — no experience needed! Some roles are half-day.
Sign up through the QR code on this page or click the QR code. For question reach out to enable@monumentalimpact.org.

⚙️ Combat Robotics: “Robot Chaos” Volunteer Opportunities

Help run the thrilling Robot Chaos combat robotics competition — where custom-built bots face off in the arena!

Field / Match Supervisor – Manage match flow and arena safety. Also does the inspections of robots.
Judges – Score matches and ensure fair play.
Scorekeeper – Track match results using Challonge software.
Game Announcer – Provide live commentary during matches.

This year’s focus will feature Plastic Antweight and Fairyweight divisions — perfect for new and experienced builders alike of all ages.

🎨 Robotics & Technology EXPO – Exhibitor & Volunteer Opportunities

In addition to the robotics action, Gobble Squabble will feature an EXPO highlighting other robotics & technology projects from UCCS clubs and community organizations. We’re looking for volunteers to help with:

Expo Setup & Logistics – Assist exhibitors with setup and table placement.
Expo Coordination – Welcome exhibitors and help manage attendee flow.

If your organization or club would like to host an exhibit, please contact enable@monumentalimpact.org for participation details.

💡 Be Part of the Action

The Gobble Squabble is a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and community innovation — and it couldn’t happen without volunteers like you!

📩 Interested in volunteering or exhibiting?
Email enable@monumentalimpact.org or sign up online through
FIRSTinspires.org → Event Volunteering → Gobble Squabble FTC Scrimmage

OR Scan the QR Code:

Your time, skills, and enthusiasm make this annual event possible. Join us to inspire the next generation of makers and innovators!

If you know others that would like to connect with the robotics & technology community at the MITEE Gobble Squabble, please feel free to share our flyer or our website.