The Felician theme for this year is “Widening Our Tents”, and HNMCS Robotics has been actively living out this theme by creating opportunities that expanded learning beyond the classroom and welcomed students of all ages into STEM. Through outreach education, competitions and mentorship, the robotics programme helped build an inclusive community rooted in collaboration, service and shared growth.
The year began with the Robotics summer camp where students in grades four to eight were introduced to robotics and coding using LEGO SPIKE robots. Campers learned key programming concepts such as line following and sensor use before applying their skills to FIRST LEGO League challenges. Camp ended with a showcase for families, allowing students to proudly demonstrate their work and inspiring many to continue exploring STEM.
As the school year continued, robotics strengthened its connection to education and service through the ConnectED project. Computer science students partnered with a school in the Northwest Territories to teach younger students how to code using Scratch. In November, HNMCS students also learned directly from students at Mangilaluk School in Tuktoyaktuk who shared insights into their culture, daily life and environmental challenges. This exchange widened students’ understanding of Canada and highlighted the value of learning through connection and mutual respect.
On November 1, 2025, members of the robotics team competed at the STEMley Cup in Hamilton alongside 27 other teams. Students worked together in a variety of roles, including driving scouting strategy and pit support, gaining valuable experience and teamwork skills. During the event, team members also attended a Women in STEM workshop, which reinforced the importance of inclusion, representation and perseverance in technical fields.
On November 25, 2025, HNMCS Robotics hosted an EmpowHER event in collaboration with a Mississauga Girl Guides group. Participants learned to code LEGO SPIKE Prime robots and worked in teams to complete challenges focused on problem-solving and collaboration. Older students mentored younger participants by offering guidance while encouraging independence and equal contribution, creating a supportive and empowering environment.
In December, HNMCS Robotics hosted its fourth annual FIRST LEGO League tournament, welcoming 21 teams from across Mississauga for the UNEARTHED season. The event emphasized gracious professionalism, teamwork and collaboration as teams competed and supported one another. By opening the school to the wider community, the tournament created a space where students could learn from each other and celebrate STEM together.
Throughout the year 7659, Robotics continued its long-standing tradition of co-hosting the annual Business Brunch with 1360 Robotics. For the past eight years, this event has connected students with professionals from fields such as banking, technology, accounting and corporate operations. By sharing diverse career experiences, speakers helped students feel more confident about post-secondary pathways and encouraged them to explore new possibilities.
As students prepared for life after high school, events such as Engineering Career Night further widened their perspectives. Hearing from engineers across multiple disciplines helped students understand that STEM careers are creative, impactful, and shaped by collaboration, adaptability, and problem-solving.
Through all of these experiences, HNMCS Robotics consistently widened its tent by welcoming new voices, building connections and sharing knowledge across communities. By combining education, mentorship and service, the program has left a lasting impact, encouraging students to move forward with confidence, curiosity and a commitment to inclusion and leadership.
– Samantha K. ‘ 28 (Member of HNMCS Robotics Team FRC7659)
