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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.

Robotics Course

Members of the teams enroll in the Robotics course, which is year-long and can be taken for multiple years. The course includes 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 Web Design & Computer Science Principles (Honors)

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

Salem Academy and College Presents Author Sami Schalk

Monday, March 20, 2023
Salem Academy and College, in partnership with Bookmarks, will present author Sami Schalk, Ph.D. on Wednesday, March 29 at 7 p.m.

Salem Academy and College Establishes Future of the Academy Building Task Force

Thursday, March 16, 2023
Salem is exploring the future possibilities for the Salem Academy building with the assistance of Salem Academy alumnae, current staff and community members. This work will result in a plan by the end of 2023 for future use of this important landmark in our community.

PBS North Carolina to Debut “Journey to Salem” Documentary

Tuesday, February 28, 2023
PBS North Carolina will debut the “Journey to Salem” documentary on Wednesday, March 15 at 8 p.m.