From right to left, Conair team members Nick Sheth of the IT Department, Rafael Soliven, a Product Engineer, and Elena Rebimbas, a college student working in Conair’s Engineering Department through a Co-op Program. On the left is Carver’s Manager of Middle and High School Programs:, Mary Martini.
Carver was proud to welcome representatives from Conair, an early sponsor of the Carver Innovators Challenge, to meet with the 6th- and 7th-grade students on the Carver Innovators Robotics Team at Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy.
The Carver Innovators Challenge is an exciting new Fairfield County initiative designed to connect students, educators, and corporate partners through hands-on learning in robotics, chess, and strategic problem-solving.
During the visit, students shared their experience building Eric the robot, a challenging project that called for patience, teamwork, and problem-solving. Many of the robot’s parts were created using the school’s 3D printer, giving students the opportunity to see how design ideas can become real working components.
The students also heard from Rafael about his work as an engineer, including the process of designing, developing, and testing products such as hairdryers. His remarks helped students make a powerful connection between what they are learning now and the kinds of careers they may pursue in the future.
Mary spoke proudly about how much the students have grown since the first day of the program and said she is excited to build on this year’s success by increasing the level of difficulty in the future. That growth was on full display as students described the collaboration, persistence, and creativity required to bring their robot to life.
Now, the Ponus Ridge team is looking ahead to next week’s Carver Innovators’ Robotics Showcase, where they hope to take the top prize for their school. Conair team members are looking forward to cheering them on, and Rafael is expected to return as one of the judges.
The Carver Innovators Challenge brings together K–8 students from Norwalk schools with corporate mentors and professional instructors for six weeks of immersive enrichment focused on engineering, strategy, collaboration, and leadership. Through the program, students gain hands-on experience in robotics engineering and coding, build strategic thinking skills, grow in confidence through public competition, and develop abilities that support future STEM learning and careers.
Carver Innovators’ Robotics Showcase
April 21 | 4:00–6:00 PM
National Havoc Robot League (HAVOC/NHRL)
These events celebrate student creativity, perseverance, and innovation while bringing the community together to recognize the power of STEM learning. Sponsorship of the program lets companies invest directly in the future workforce of Fairfield County and engage employees in meaningful community service.
Carver is grateful for the leadership support of Conair, Sound Control Technologies, Terex, and BMW of Darien, whose partnership is helping make these opportunities possible for students across Norwalk.
