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Robotics and STEM

Stereotypes Shattered Here

Robotics and STEM - students putting together chassis for robotics challenge

Yes, women are still underrepresented in STEM-related careers, but we’re changing that! Salem gives girls real access to science technology, engineering, and math. We do so through courses and activities like Robotics and STEAM camps.

“I felt very well prepared to succeed in a STEM-related field. My coursework at the Academy provided a solid foundation in Math, Biology, and Chemistry. I believe the writing and analytical skills I learned were extremely beneficial and I think this skillset differentiated me from my peers.”

Molly DeCristo Ph.D., ‘09
Research Fellow at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Robotics Teams

What started as a club in 2014 has quickly grown into a formidable force. In 2017, the team competed in the First Tech Challenge World Championships and ranked in the top 3%!

Today, Salem hosts 2 teams: The Sisters of the Motherboard and the Code Sisters.

Our History

  • Formed in 2014, competed in First Tech Challenge State Finals
  • 2015: Competed and advanced in First Tech Challenge State Finals
  • 2016: Competed in First Tech Challenge State Finals; selected for Alliance round
  • 2017: Selected to compete in First Tech Challenge World Championship in Houston, Texas; Ranked in the top 3%! 
  • 2018: Competed in First Tech Challenge State Finals
  • 2019: Competed in First Tech Challenge State Finals; won the Motivate Award, exemplifying team spirit and collaboration; Placed 2nd for self-created Promote Award video; Placed 3rd in self-created Compass Award video.
  • 2020: Competed in First Tech Challenge State Finals; received 1st place Think Award.
  • 2021: Competed in First Tech Challenge State Finals; received 2nd place Motivate Award.
  • 2022: Competed in First Tech Challenge State Finals; received 1st place Compass Award (Code Sisters team);  2nd place Connect Award (Sisters of the Motherboard team)
  • 2023: Hosted Winston-Salem qualifier on campus; Competed in First Tech Challenge State Finals

Robotics Course

Members of the teams enroll in Robotics courses, which are year-long and can be taken for multiple years. The courses include hands-on learning and instruction in the following areas:

  • Engineering design
  • Computer-aided design
  • 3-D printing
  • JAVA programming
  • STEM outreach
  • Robot creation

Plus, courses in Computer Science Principles (Honors) and JAVA Programming. 

All-Girls Camps: STEAM and Robotics & Coding

Salem students work alongside Academy teachers to inspire the next generation of girls at the week-long STEAM and Robotics & Coding camps. Read more about STEAM Camp

Discover your Calling

I plan to be a mechanical engineer, which is something I discovered through Robotics. I was involved since my freshman year and developed a real passion for it. I just love when it all comes together, it’s almost magical!”

Abigail Wucherer A’19,
now a Park Scholar at North Carolina State University

Latest News

Announcing the President’s Advisory Council

Wednesday, August 30, 2023
I am pleased to share that the President’s Advisory Council, an initiative of Salem’s 2022-2025 Strategic Plan, has been established. The Council is one key way in which Salem is engaging with leaders and partners on these topics.

Reflections on Women’s Equality Day

Saturday, August 26, 2023
As we celebrate Women's Equality Day tomorrow, I have been thinking a lot about gender equity, the progress we have made, and the work still yet to be done, both here at Salem and across our society.

Triad Business Journal Recognizes Salem Academy Alum Kalin Griffin

Thursday, June 29, 2023
The Triad Business Journal recently profiled Kalin Griffin Bostwick (A’01) as a Leader in Diversity.