Desert Wave makes history as first all-women robotics champions

In a recent government meeting, the Desert Wave robotics team was celebrated for their remarkable achievement in the 27th International RoboSub Competition, where they secured first place among 41 teams from eight countries. Notably, Desert Wave is recognized as the first all-women robotics team to win a world championship in this competition.

The team, comprised of students from Arizona State University (ASU), showcased two robots, named Dragon and Baby Dragon, which operated in tandem during the competition. Team members, including Nancy Skuel Vasquez, Gabby Hernandez, Allie Rodriguez, and recent graduates Paulina Garrigail Jacquez and Jacqueline Castro, were present to share their experiences and express their excitement about their victory.

Dr. Daniel Frank, a professor at ASU, and Freddie LaGiovardi, CEO of the Cisse Puede Foundation, also participated in the meeting, highlighting the importance of STEM education and the success of local robotics initiatives. LaGiovardi noted that his foundation operates a STEM center in Chandler, which is home to one of the top high school robotics teams in the country and the leading underwater robotics team globally.

The meeting concluded with plans to showcase the documentary \"Spare Parts\" at the upcoming Contigo Festival, further promoting interest in robotics and STEM fields within the community. The Desert Wave team's achievement not only marks a significant milestone in robotics but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of female engineers and scientists.