NCMC to Host Statewide SkillsUSA Robotics Competition

High-stakes contest challenges students to design and implement automated robotic work cells.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:54pm

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A highly structured abstract painting in metallic grays, electric blues, and fiery oranges, depicting the complex integration of robotic systems, sensors, and programmable logic controllers in a precise, technological composition reminiscent of a scientific diagram.NCMC's statewide robotics competition challenges students to design and implement cutting-edge industrial automation systems, bridging the gap between classroom theory and real-world workforce demands.Savannah Today

North Central Missouri College (NCMC) is set to host the Missouri State SkillsUSA Robotics Automation Contest on Friday, April 3 at its Savannah campus. The competition will feature two-person teams tasked with designing and implementing an automated robotic work cell, integrating a six-axis industrial robot with complex peripherals like PLCs, motorized components, and industrial sensors.

Why it matters

Hosting the statewide robotics competition underscores NCMC's role in technical education, providing an industry-aligned environment where students can bridge the gap between classroom theory and the practical needs of the modern workforce.

The details

Reflecting real-world industrial automation demands, teams are required to document their entire workflow, program the robotic system, and defend their solution before a panel of industry judges. Scoring will be based on technical accuracy, operational efficiency, speed and documentation, and collaboration under pressure.

  • The competition will take place on Friday, April 3, 2026.

The players

NCMC

North Central Missouri College, the host institution for the statewide SkillsUSA Robotics Automation Contest.

Rick Sharp

NCMC Industrial Technology Instructor, who expressed high expectations for the competing teams.

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What they’re saying

“Both of our competing teams have worked diligently, and our expectations are very high.”

— Rick Sharp, NCMC Industrial Technology Instructor

The takeaway

By hosting this statewide robotics competition, NCMC is demonstrating its commitment to providing students with hands-on, industry-aligned technical education that prepares them for the demands of the modern workforce.