Capitol Tech Robotics Club Places Second in VEX U Competition



Capitol Tech Robotics Team working on robot build
Capitol Tech Robotics Team working on robot build

 

The Capitol Tech Robotics team recently competed in a VEX U Robotics Competition (VURC) at Virginia Tech, in which they earned 2nd Place! This achievement reflects the countless hours that our students dedicate to designing, building, programming, and testing competitive robots while developing real-world engineering and teamwork skills. 

VURC is a program where college-level student teams design and build robots to compete in strategic, game-based challenges. Teams apply concepts from mechanics, programming, electronics, and problem-solving while collaborating under real competition conditions, much like professional engineering teams in the industry. 

Capitol Tech's robot stood out for its ingenuity, combining a sleek mechanical design with advanced programming that allowed expert maneuverability and dexterity. The teams were judged based on their' robot's ability to move, catch and return specialized red and blue foam balls, and perform other tasks. Our robot's seamless blend of innovation and control secured a coveted place in the top two slots for the semi-finals elimination bracket. Students who competed include: Maycold Asencio-Orozco, Ezekiel Spring, Landon Carter, Moshe Mack, Scott Morrison, and Keyon'Ta Waters

In preparation for the competition, the Robotics team started in September 2025, working on the design, build, and programming of their robot. Activities included prototyping, 3D modeling and printing of custom parts, programming development, driver practice sessions, and strategy discussions. They conducted regular testing in their robotics workspace, currently located within the esports arena during our lab renovation process, allowing them to refine their autonomous programming, improve driver controls, and troubleshoot the robots to mitigate any risks or complications. 

After the competition, the team took what they learned from the experience and made several changes based on how their robot performed during the event. They spent several weeks refining the robot to maximize efficiency and are working on integrating more sensors and a filtering system tailored for color-coded scoring. 

“We are incredibly proud to represent Capitol Technology University and grateful for the continued encouragement from our campus community,” said Maycold Asencio-Orozco, Astronautical Engineering undergraduate student. “Achievements like this are only possible because of the support we receive from students, faculty, and staff.” 

Visit Red Robin to Support the Team!

The Capitol Tech Robotics Club has partnered with Red Robin for a fundraiser to help with the costs of competing, traveling, and growing our program. All are invited to come out and support the club.

Date: Thursday, February 26
Time: All Day (during restaurant hours of operation)
Location: Red Robin, 15650 Excelsior Dr, Bowie, MD 20716

During this fundraiser, 20% of all qualifying purchases will be donated back to support our team. Visit Red Robin in Bowie for carryout or dine-in and present this flyer!

Spring Campaign for Robotics

We are thrilled to invite you to join our Spring Giving Campaign starting March 1 and leading up to our Day of Giving event on March 31. Your generosity will fuel transformative experiences for both our undergraduate and graduate students. We’ve identified five areas of emphasis for this year’s campaign, including our Robotics Club! Your gift will support high-quality components for building competitive robots, opportunities for students to participate in regional and national competitions, and access to expert guidance for enhanced technical skills.

Visit our Give Campus website to donate and receive a Charlie the Charger bobblehead!

 

Robotics Team Photo
Capitol Tech Robotics Team

 

Robotics Behind the Scenes

Students interested in learning more about the robotics team are invited to stop by the campus Esports Arena. You can see the development of robots, watch testing sessions, and learn more about how students design, build, and program competition-ready robots. Members of the team are at the esports arena every day after 3 pm.

If you would like to see the team compete live, their next competition will take place:

Date: Saturday, March 7
Time: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
Location: Fairmont State University – Falcon Center, 1201 Locust Ave, Fairmont, WV 26554

During this competition, Capitol Tech's Robotics team will face top collegiate teams from across the country as well as some international teams, making it an exciting opportunity to witness a high-level robotics competition firsthand.

Follow Our Social Media

Support the Robotics team by following them on social media! See updates about upcoming events, competition results, team highlights, and more throughout the season.

Instagram and X: @capitol_crc

To learn more about Capitol Tech’s clubs and organizations, visit our website.