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What to Do When Your Student Excels in Robotics

While the manufacturing industry is scrambling to fill positions with skilled robotics workers, the fact remains that many educational institutions simply aren't equipped to foster an interest in the field at a young age. This is a problem, because it means that it's going to be that much harder to fill all those robotics jobs in the coming years. It's also a problem because it deprives kids of the chance to fully explore their passion in robotics with educational guidance. Robotics students are more important to the manufacturing ecosystem than ever, and encouraging their growth and progress is critical to the future of the industry.

If you're a teacher or a counselor at one of these schools without robotics programs, you might have noticed kids who showed an aptitude for the field, but you weren't sure how to help them pursue it. In this article, we're going to talk about ways to help your students prepare for a career in robotics even if your school doesn't have any robotics programs. Robotics students can benefit from training courses that are not necessarily linked to their schools, and we've taken the liberty of listing out a few different options for your budding robotics students.

Encourage Robotics Students to Participate in Robotics Communities

One of the best things you can do for a student who shows an aptitude for robotics is to encourage them to get involved in online or offline robotics communities. There are many different types of these communities, so there's sure to be one that's a good fit for your student. 

Not only can local and online communities keep your student up to date on robotics events, but they provide a forum to ask questions and learn through discussion.  These communities can also introduce your student to other people with similar interests, which can be helpful for networking and building relationships in the robotics industry. Most people working in the robotics industry started out as robotics students themselves, so they can provide valuable insight about what steps should be taken next.

It's also a good idea for interested students to keep an eye on RoboticsCareer.org, where we're frequently announcing news and upcoming events in the industry. We are a comprehensive source for training, internships, learning experiences, and all relevant opportunities for robotics students.

Competitions Are Wonderful Learning Experiences for Robotics Students

Competing in robotics competitions is another great way for your student to learn more about the field and potentially make some industry connections. These competitions can be local, national, or even international, and there are many different types of robotics competitions available. 

If your robotics student is interested in competing in robotics competitions, the best way to get started is to look for local events. Once they've gotten a taste of what these competitions are like, they can start looking for larger events. 

The best thing about robotics competitions is that they teach participants hands-on mechanical skills that they're probably not learning in a high school classroom. These competitions also give participants the opportunity to apply what they've learned in a real-world setting, which is an invaluable experience for robotics students.

Have Your Robotics Student Explore Apprenticeship Opportunities

If your student is interested in pursuing a career in robotics, they should definitely look into apprenticeship opportunities. These programs are offered by many companies in the robotics industry, and they provide participants with on-the-job training that can't be beat. 

Apprenticeship programs typically last around two years, and during that time participants will learn everything from how to operate and maintain robots to programming and troubleshooting. These programs are an excellent way for your student to get their foot in the door of the robotics industry, and they often lead to full-time positions after the program is finished. 

You can even use our search tool on the RoboticsCareer.org homepage to find robotics apprenticeships from around the country. 

Talk to Industry Professionals

If you know anyone who works in the robotics industry, reach out to them and see if they're willing to talk to your student. This is a great way for your student to learn more about the industry and get some first-hand advice from someone who is experienced in the field. 

Above All, Continue to Encourage Your Robotics Students

Robotics is a great field with a wide open future ahead of it.  If your student shows an aptitude for robotics, the best thing you can do is encourage them to explore the field further and find their own path into the industry. Just because your school might not be particularly equipped to handle robotics studies, that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of other ways for an interested kid to pursue their passion. 

There are many different ways to get involved in robotics, so there's sure to be something that's a good fit for your student. With your encouragement, they'll be able to find the path that's right for them.