Lake Superior College News Releases

(Duluth, Minn.) — They have names like “Extinguisher,” “Last Minute,” and “Team Ewok.” They’re combat robots designed to fight each other in competition, and they’ll be doing battle at the Miller Hill Mall in Duluth on May 15, starting at noon. The event will feature 15-pound combat robots competing in a 12-foot by 12-foot plexiglas arena. Student teams from across the region have been invited to compete.

This year’s event will take place in the indoor mall courtyard in front of Barnes and Noble at the Miller Hill Mall in Duluth, Minnesota. Competition starts at noon and continues until a champion is crowned. The competition is free and open to the public.

According to LSC Integrated Manufacturing instructor Mike Koppy, robot competitions have proven to be an excellent way to interest students in manufacturing and engineering programs. “Last year, this event attracted middle school students and high school students as well as college teams,” Koppy reports. “We expect the event to continue to grow.”

The tournament is sponsored by the Midwest Robotics League and the LSC Integrated Manufacturing program.

LSC is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. With more than 4,800 students enrolled this spring semester, LSC is northeastern Minnesota’s largest two-year college. LSC provides a wide range of programs and services, including liberal arts and science courses for transfer, technical programs intended to provide occupational skills, continuing education, and customized training for business and industry. LSC is also a leader in Internet-delivered courses and programs in Minnesota.

Photo caption: LSC students Cheng Vang and Kenny Heehn make adjustments to “Extinguisher,” their entry in the “Battle of the Bots.”