Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy Robotics program prepares students for the future of work
(Photo Credit: Tina White/Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy}
Help support the Robotics Program at Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy. As automation and technology rise, we’re committed to preparing our students with the tools they need to thrive. They are seeking donations to help expand resources, enabling students to engage in hands-on learning, design, coding, and engineering projects. Each generous donor will be recognized in a newsletter, on social media, and at public showcases. If you’re interested in supporting the mission or would like more details, please email tinawhite@davidson.k12.nc.us
At Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy (YVRCA), robotics isn’t just a class—it’s a launchpad for the future. The school’s dynamic robotics program is helping students become workforce-ready by equipping them with crucial skills in coding, engineering, and hands-on robotics. With a strong focus on project-based learning and STEM education, students engage in real-world problem-solving that encourages innovation, collaboration, and creativity.
“We want to continue to be a North Carolina STEM School of Distinction, and having programs like this will set us apart from other schools,” said Kevin Hudson, Principal at YVRCA. “Having a robotics program was my number one goal when I came to Valley in January of 2022 because of the advanced manufacturing companies in our area that use this technology in their buildings, and our students need to be prepared for that as they enter the workforce. We went three years without robotics after COVID, and I’m proud to say we have gotten that back in our building and it continues to grow each semester.”
The robotics program plays a vital role in supporting the school’s mission: To graduate creative innovators. Through hands-on experiences, students tackle challenges that mirror real-life industry needs—an approach that not only builds technical skills but also reinforces teamwork, time management, and critical thinking. These experiences prepare them for careers in high-demand fields like advanced manufacturing, IT, welding, and beyond.
YVRCA’s efforts have received a boost through support such as the Bright Ideas educational grant from Energy United. The grant allowed the school to purchase Cyberbots, enhancing Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses and giving students even more engaging and interactive ways to explore automation and robotics.
“The Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy Robotics Program is important in preparing our students for the future of work by blending critical thinking skills, creativity, and problem solving in STEM-related fields,” said Nekia Lewis, Robotics Instructor. “Our program focuses on the real-world application of technology and automation through programming, coding, and completing robot builds, while addressing the ethical considerations of robotics in the 21st century.”
Student voices further reflect the program’s impact:
“Yadkin Valley's robotics program is a course where you get to do the most hands-on activities as well as critical thinking,” said Jamiya Pope, a YVRCA student. “This course will introduce many doors beyond working with robots. You will learn to code, to engineer, to prototype, and use critical thinking to solve real-world problems. This course, in my opinion, is the highlight of Yadkin Valley's STEM program and I recommend young kids who want to challenge themselves to join.”
“Valley Academy’s robotics program allows students to truly explore their capabilities by connecting STEM into classroom projects,” added Angel Nguyen. “The program and its students both have a bright future ahead.”
“Robotics is every engineering discipline put in one, and physical principles with unique ‘brains,’” said Alex Myers.
“Robotics shows you the future of life and how it is needed,” noted Nathan Johnson.
As the only program of its kind in Davidson County, YVRCA’s robotics initiative stands out not only for its cutting-edge approach but also for its deep integration into the broader mission of the school.
The academy is currently seeking support to grow its impact. There are two key ways the community can help:
First, by offerings Internship Opportunities: Businesses in manufacturing, welding, IT, and other sectors can provide internships during the Spring (January–May) and Fall (August–December) semesters. YVRCA students are dual-enrolled at the Davidson Davie Community College, making them uniquely prepared for workplace experiences that reinforce their classroom learning.
Also, by providing funding, Donations of equipment, program resources, or financial contributions help enhance the program and expand opportunities for students to build market-ready skills.You can email Career Development Coordinator tinawhite@davidson.k12.nc.us.
YVRCA is building not just robots—but the innovators, engineers, and leaders who will shape the industries of tomorrow.
