#PeopleofSTEAM: Meet Desert WAVE

The world of robotics is rapidly evolving, and one remarkable group is making waves from the deserts of Arizona. Meet Desert WAVE (Women in Autonomous Vehicle Engineering), a collegiate robotics team made up of dedicated FIRST® alumni. Based at the Si Se Puede Foundation STEM Center in Chandler, Arizona, this vibrant team achieved a significant milestone by securing first place against 41 teams from eight countries at the prestigious 27th International RoboSub Competition.

Desert WAVE stands as a powerful beacon for the potential of women in STEAM fields. Transitioning from middle and high school FIRST participants to elite robotics engineers, these students from Arizona State University have made history as the first all-women robotics team to win top honors in this esteemed competition.

The International RoboSub Competition challenges participants to build autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) that simulate real-world applications like seafloor mapping and underwater exploration. With 41 competing teams, the stakes were high, showcasing the skills and innovations of the best in the field. In their inaugural competition, these women showcased their engineering prowess, pushing the boundaries of what’s feasible in robotics.

Upon forming, Desert WAVE dove headfirst into the exciting world of robotics. Their journey began by dissecting the components of Falcon Robotics’ former AUV, gaining hands-on experience that became foundational for creating their original AUV. Beyond technical training, they engaged in extensive community outreach, illustrating their commitment to inspiring others. For example, they hosted workshops that taught over 100 local students about robotics and the importance of women in STEAM careers.

In the recent 2024 competition, Desert WAVE set new benchmarks, impressively deploying two underwater robots. Named Dragon and Baby Dragon, these AUVs were engineered to navigate the complex competition course with finesse. They could autonomously launch torpedoes and identify colors, showcasing their advanced capabilities. In fact, their successful execution of over 80% of the competition tasks significantly contributed to their overall win.

The coordination between Dragon and Baby Dragon was exceptional. These two AUVs operated in harmony to tackle the competition challenges. Their performance not only reflected technical excellence but also embodied teamwork and collaboration—essential qualities in robotics. The robots’ ability to function independently without human commands exemplified their innovative design and engineering.

With their remarkable victory, Desert WAVE is not just celebrating a championship; they are igniting a spark in the next generation of engineers and tech enthusiasts. Their journey serves as a compelling reminder that dedication and teamwork can break barriers and establish new standards in robotics. As they continue to forge ahead, it is evident that their journey has merely begun.

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