Students at Chautauqua Lake Central School are proving that a small-town program can lead to big-time success — thanks to hands-on learning, dedicated mentors, and strong community support.
 
The school’s robotics team, launched just two years ago through its growing technology program, has already earned statewide recognition. This year, they advanced to VEX Robotics World Championships, a worldwide competition in Dallas, Texas, where they placed among top contenders from six different countries.
 
The team’s journey was made possible by a network of sponsors, including Dream It Do It WNY, Miraclean, Jamestown Plastics, and local restaurants like AJ Texas Hots.
 
“As soon as I learned that the team had qualified for states, nationals and worlds, I knew I had to help and was determined to do a sponsor finding project," stated Bennet Birkner, German exchange student and team member. ”Participating in competitions and traveling isn't easy to do without help - so that is how the whole process started."
 
"We partner a lot with Chautauqua Lake School," stated Todd Tranum, Executive Director of the Manufacturers Association of the Southern Tier. "They are a phenomenal district to work with, the students are great and so is the faculty - so when we were told about these competitions, we wanted to help as much as possible." 
 
One student on the team described the experience of competing in Texas as unforgettable.
 
"We placed second at states which allowed us to go to worlds, and are really happy with how we did," said Devin Kellsey, senior robotics team member. "We put in a lot of hours in the shop, and after school too - a lot of late-night pizzas, so I think we earned it."
 
The robotics program is part of a broader career and technical education initiative at Chautauqua Lake, where students have access to hands-on courses in welding, STEM, and manufacturing.
 
“We have been expanding our program for the last eight years and now include robotics," stated Dan McCray, Technology and Manufacturing teacher. "The kids here are really taking to it and gleaning from hands-on skills, taking what they are learning in their core classes and then applying those skills to get real, tangible, experiences. It's amazing to see them learn and grow every day."
 
The school is also working to close gender gaps in the trades. Female students in the region were recently welcomed to enroll in a “Girls in Manufacturing Day” hosted by Chautauqua Lake Central School in collaboration with Dream It Do It WNY, on Friday, June 6th.
 
“Coming here and seeing how everything is made was really inspiring,” said Ava Zarpentine, sophomore. “Now I’m more involved and will be helping to give others an opportunity to try it out and maybe even fall in love with it too, which is really cool."
 
"It's really fun and there are a lot of different things you can do in welding," added Gracie Gerring, junior. "I was inspired by my brother, and I am excited to inspire other girls to discover it too." 
 
Friday’s event will include industry speakers, demonstrations, and networking opportunities designed to empower young women pursuing careers in manufacturing and skilled trades.
 
For more information on the Chautauqua Lake Central School, their robotics team, and other S.T.E.M. programs, visit here.