Up-A-Creek Robotics

Founded in 2005 as an after-school club at Silver Creek High School, Up-A-Creek Robotics has evolved from humble beginnings into a renowned institution at the forefront of STEM education (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and competitive robotics. For two decades, this organization has been a place of inspiration, nurturing the talents of countless students and sharpening the future of engineering and technology.

Up-A-Creek Robotics, also known as FRC (FIRST Robotics Competition) Team 1619 is a collective of high school students who come together to learn both technical and non-technical skills. Their goal is to construct a functional robot capable of tackling a fresh set of tasks each year.

Team members learn various skills, including programming in Java, wiring, and operating large CNC mills (Computer Numerical Control mills), as well as designing and fabricating parts from aluminum and plastic. Members use design thinking processes and the ideals of teamwork and inclusion to foster a positive learning environment. In the past season, the team members competed at the Utah and Colorado Regionals, where they earned the Innovation Award.

The team met for several years at the SVVSD Career Development Center before moving to a building on Sherman Street in 2015. Along with their move, 2015 also saw the establishment of the GEAR Alliance, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that now oversees seven junior robotics teams and educates 140 students in grades four to 12, including teams participating in FIRST Lego League competitions. This initiative broadened Up-A-Creek Robotics' impact, enriching the educational experience for students across the St Vrain Valley School District and beyond.

The Up-A-Creek 20-year anniversary reunion, held on June 29, brought together 150 attendees, including current students, alumni, mentors, parents, and sponsors, who have all played pivotal roles in the organization's journey.

The reunion started with remarks from Terry Olkin, President of the GEAR Alliance, who expressed profound gratitude to the sponsors whose steadfast support has been instrumental in Up-A-Creek's success. Esteemed mentors such as John Risgby, Mike Brockman, and Joanna Schirle were also present, underscoring their enduring impact on generations of aspiring engineers.

Alumni from across the country returned to share in the festivities, highlighting the profound influence Up-A-Creek has had on their personal and professional lives. Many alumni have pursued advanced degrees in fields such as computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and aerospace engineering at prestigious universities, Others have already embarked on successful careers in industries ranging from telecommunications and entertainment to aerospace and medical devices, showcasing the skills and knowledge through their involvement with the organization.

Current students and alumni were given the opportunity to connect over their passion for STEM and robotics as well as share their experiences on the team.

Reflecting on the reunion, mentor Teresa Ewing said, "It was so great to see so many faces I hadn't seen in so many years and hear about all the incredible science and engineering they are all doing. But most impressive was their passion. To a person, every one of them was pursuing their dream and had a fire in them. I think this program had a lot to do with that and am so happy that they still consider Up-A-Creek Robotics their family."

James O'Hara echoed the sentiments of many alumni stating, "Up-A-Creek is an opportunity to do things in the areas of STEM that you can't do in school. I have learned mechanical design, fabrication, electronics, and robot software through Up-A-Creek and I believe that this opportunity puts me ahead of many other people when trying to get into college or the my desired field of work"

Throughout its journey, Up-A-Creek has been immensely grateful for the support of its generous sponsors. The St. Vrain Valley School District has always been a great help to the team, and most students attend SVVSD schools. Seagate Technology, Ball Aerospace (now BAE Systems), and The Toro Company Robotics have also been instrumental, contributing not only financial assistance but also expertise and mentorship. Their commitment to fostering innovation and educational excellence has been fundamental in Up-A-Creek Robotics' ability to inspire and empower the next generation of STEM leaders.