Every year, Klein ISD’s Robotics team, VorTX 3735, spends months planning, testing, training, and competing in statewide robotics competitions. This year, however, the season carried a deeper meaning. The team dedicated their robot, Noah’s Ark, to teammate and alumnus Noah Lewis, who passed away earlier this school year.
As they honor Noah’s memory, the team continues the hard work and collaboration that define the VorTX program.
“We know how much Noah cared for and adored this team, and how much work he put into it every year,” Klein Cain senior and team captain Landon Pham said. “When we heard what had happened, it was decided instantly that we would not only dedicate this robot to him, but the entire season to him as well.”
Each season, teams are given a “game” with objectives and parameters for their robot that they then design and build from the ground up. In addition to the mechanical aspect, VorTX 3735 also has a student-led business team that handles the organization's finance, graphic design, video editing, and more. This requires strong communication and collaboration from students across all Klein ISD high schools.
For Landon, VorTX 3735 is about more than just the competition.
“Through VorTX 3735, I learned what it means to be on a team, I learned how to become a leader, and, ultimately, I learned how I could be the best version of myself,” Landon said. “That is why being on VorTX 3735 is one of my proudest decisions.”
The team has seen strong results this season, earning record-breaking top 10 finishes and receiving the Gracious Professionalism and Judges Awards in its first two FIT District competitions. The team is motivated and proud to honor Noah through their passion for robotics.
“After both of our events, we are officially Statebound! The team is very excited about the result from this season so far,” Landon said. “UIL State District Championships are next week, so we’ve already hit the ground running with upgrades and modifications that need to be made to perform our very best at State!”
If you are a high school student in Klein ISD and are interested in joining VorTX 3735, the process is simple.
“Students from all five Klein ISD high schools can join at any grade level by simply coming to the shop and expressing an intent to join,” team member Aria said.
Visit vortx3735.org for more information.
Congratulations, VorTX 3735, on your performance, and thank you for your effort to honor the legacy of your program and the memory of your fellow teammate. We wish you the best of luck at your next competition!