Photo submitted to the Timers Observer Pictured are the LEGO Robotics campers in front of Betts Industries.

Sixteen young innovators from the Warren Forest Higher Education Council’s LEGO Robotics Camp experienced a day they won’t soon forget when they visited Betts Industries on June 11 for an up close look at advanced robotics in action.

The annual tour, a highlight of the week-long camp, provided campers with a first-hand view of how robotics and automation drive modern manufacturing.

“The visit to Betts is always the most memorable part of the week,” said Angela Bigelow, assistant director and school to work coordinator at the Warren Forest Higher Education Council. “It’s where students get to see the real-world power of robotics–and imagine themselves doing something like this in the future. We’re so thankful to Betts for opening their doors to us year after year.”

Throughout the camp, students are guided by facilitators Craig King and Joe English, who introduce them to the basics of building and programming LEGO robots. Campers spend the week tackling maze challenges that encourage teamwork, creative thinking, and hands-on problem-solving.

But it’s the connection to real-world applications that leaves the strongest impression. During their visit to Betts Industries, students toured the facility and witnessed the high-tech robotics and automated systems that support the company’s operations. For many campers, it was a powerful moment–bringing classroom learning to life and offering a glimpse into future career possibilities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

The Warren Forest Higher Education Council has long prioritized hands-on learning opportunities like the LEGO Robotics Camp, made even more impactful through ongoing partnerships with local businesses like Betts Industries.

These experiences help students connect the dots between what they learn in camp and the potential pathways they can pursue in the future.

For more information about the Warren Forest Higher Education Council’s programs, visit www.hi-ed.org.