Thanks to a NEF Teacher Innovation Grant awarded to instructor Zachary Pitts, students at the Newton College and Career Academy spent this semester exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming modern engineering. Robotics, engineering, physics, computer science, and 3D modeling students teamed up to design, build, and program autonomous robots capable of making decisions using AI‑powered vision sensors.
As part of the project, 3D Modeling students were challenged to design a custom rescue robot that could navigate a simulated disaster zone. Using Autodesk Inventor and VEX robotics components purchased through the grant, students created robots built to maneuver through a dangerous, rubble‑filled environment—mirroring real‑world search‑and‑rescue challenges.
Throughout the build, students collaborated across disciplines: engineering students focused on structure and stability, physics students analyzed forces and traction, and programmers developed the AI‑driven decision‑making system. The project followed the full Engineering Design Process, from research and sketching to prototyping, troubleshooting, and final testing.
One student shared how meaningful the experience was:
This rescue bot project was honestly one of the coolest things we’ve done because we had to build everything from scratch and actually make it work under real constraints. At first it was kinda frustrating because our robot kept messing up, but once we started working together and fixing problems, it all started to click. Seeing it finally move through obstacles and not crash felt crazy rewarding. It made me realize engineering isn’t just about building stuff—it’s about figuring things out when nothing works the first time.
With more than 200 students benefiting from equipment that will be used for years to come, this project is helping NCCA students build the skills needed for emerging careers in robotics, controls engineering, and advanced manufacturing.
NEF is proud to support innovative, interdisciplinary learning experiences that prepare students for the world they’re stepping into and empower them to lead in the technologies shaping tomorrow.
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