Some sparks might have flown when the now 17-year old Chelsea Rerrie first fell in love with robots and Computer Aided Design (CAD) at the NCB Foundation/First Tech Challenge Jamaica robotics competition in 2020.

She was just in Grade Nine at the time.

“At first, I was just along for the ride, as I didn’t know much about robotics,” Rerrie shared, during her remarks at the recent launch of the 2023 competition. “But as the programme progressed, I developed a passion for computer-aided design.”

The Immaculate Conception High School sixth form student added: “I became the go-to person for CAD on my team and started teaching younger girls how to use the software that I had learnt on my own.”

In just one year, Rerrie grew from a mere beginner into her team’s very own CAD specialist. The teen also spoke about the impact of her participation in the Robotics programme on her leadership skills, saying, “I think it’s really surprising to me the way I’ve stepped up into a more leadership role more quickly than I thought I could, because of my experience in the competition.”

Aside from the competition, Rerrie noted that the elevated level of camaraderie and collaboration with other schools was one of her favourite aspects of the event.

Now in its fourth year as title sponsor of the event, NCB Foundation announced an investment of $8 million into the annual programme.

“NCB Foundation is creating the future we want to see for Jamaica by supporting the expansion of our pool of digital producers who are also nation builders,” said Nadeen Matthews Blair, CEO of NCB Foundation.

“We are delighted to continue our partnership with First Tech to advance our mutual objectives for our young people and our nation.”

Edward Alexander, Chairman, Advisory Board, First Tech Challenge (FTC) Jamaica also praised the NCB Foundation for its commitment to the programme during the launch.

“NCB Foundation is helping us to inspire a new generation of creative problem-solvers and technology leaders,” said Alexander. “We’re grateful for their partnership, which will help to ensure that the future of STEM education and digital careers in Jamaica is bright.”

The two-day event will run from February 24-25, 2023, at Jamaica College’s Karl Hendrickson Auditorium. For the first time, this year’s programme will also include First LEGO League, a complementary primary school program focused on solving real-world problems using STEM concepts and teamwork.