Our Vision
Program Growth Progress
Opportunities for Growth
DogByteRobotics club at Fayetteville High School is a collaborative effort between computer science teacher Tayla Terral and engineering teacher Jeff O'Connell. Together they envision a program beyond the club to both enhance and grow their respective programs while focusing on unique opportunities where their fields intersect. These fields are relevant, high-demand, high-wage career options that students should be afforded the opportunity to explore deeper.
Keep reading to see how our programs can evolve. If you want to know more about how you can help us grow with your donations, expertise, equipment, etc. please contact us.
PLCs
PLCs are specialized industrial computers used to automate electromechanical processes in manufacturing environments. They are programmed to perform specific tasks, such as controlling machinery, production lines, or robotic systems.
Today, PLCs are ubiquitous across various industries, from automotive and aerospace to food and beverage production. Their versatility and reliability make them essential for streamlining operations, improving efficiency, and ensuring consistency in output quality.
In School
Students have multiple local opportunities to enter this field right here in NWA. The hardware and software needs to be effective in this field are attainable by high school students. The only barrier we currently face is the cost of the equipment and some additional training for teachers.
Today, PLCs are ubiquitous across various industries, from automotive and aerospace to food and beverage production. Their versatility and reliability make them essential for streamlining operations, improving efficiency, and ensuring consistency in output quality.
In School
Students have multiple local opportunities to enter this field right here in NWA. The hardware and software needs to be effective in this field are attainable by high school students. The only barrier we currently face is the cost of the equipment and some additional training for teachers.
Robotic Arms
Robotic arms are mechanical devices designed to mimic the functions of a human arm. They are equipped with joints and end-effectors, such as grippers or tools, and are controlled by programmed instructions.
Today, robotics arms are widely utilized across industries like manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, and space exploration. They automate tasks, enhance precision, and perform functions in environments where human presence is impractical or hazardous.
In School
We currently have 3 VEX Workcells which are designed to mimic industrial robotic arms. We hope to gain more of these and develop an advanced supplement to this that would incorporate an industry robot that students program and become certified on. This is another local career opportunity for NWA students.
Plastic Waste
A very unfortunate byproduct of competing in VEX is the amount of plastic waste it produces. Because plastic is cheap and easily manufactured, and the game changes every year, the game elements are made of plastic.
Did you know less than 10% of the plastic gets recycled? The best solution is to reduce consumption, but when that's unavoidable, there are some creative solutions.
In School
In School
DIY machines can be built to shred, melt, extrude, and press plastics to make new items. We have an opportunity to create a positive change while giving students a creative pathway to design and manufacture their designs.
Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi is a small, affordable computer that fits in the palm of your hand. Despite its size, it's powerful and versatile, capable of running various applications, from simple programming projects to media centers and even home automation systems.
In School
The need for networking, website design, automation, etc. is growing daily. Our digital world is constantly expanding and Raspberry Pi is an easy affordable entry point for students to learn countless skills in multiple fields. Access to affordable sensors and a wealth of learning resources make this a great platform to adopt.
A Creative STEM Space
The ultimate goal is to have a space to house all the items listed above. A shared space where classes could do projects, explore different concepts and careers, and more. A place for students who want to go beyond the classroom. A place they can challenge themselves with their only limit being their imagination.