Torreón, Coahuila, is preparing to host the Regional Laguna robotics competition from March 26-28, bringing together more than 1,500 secondary and preparatory school students. The event, organized by Industrias Peñoles, will center around the theme of archaeology, challenging students to apply their technical skills in a creative and competitive environment.
This year’s competition will feature 44 teams representing 10 different states across Mexico. Industrias Peñoles is directly sponsoring 24 of those teams, providing opportunities for young people from Coahuila, Chihuahua, Durango, Estado de México, Guanajuato, Oaxaca, Sonora and Zacatecas to participate. The company’s commitment extends beyond financial support, aiming to foster crucial technical and socio-emotional skills needed for success in Industry 4.0.
Peñoles’ involvement in robotics education spans 15 years, and to date, over 6,000 young people have participated in the program. The initiative isn’t just about building robots; it’s about building futures. A remarkable 100% of program participants have continued their education at the university level, with 70% pursuing degrees in engineering. This statistic underscores the program’s significant impact on educational pathways and career choices.
The competition itself will task students with solving challenges inspired by archaeological digs. Teams will utilize sensors and specialized mechanisms to manipulate objects resembling relics and fossils, testing both their technical abilities and their capacity to perform under pressure. Organizers emphasize a collaborative atmosphere and a commitment to “professionalism amable” – a value central to the event’s ethos.
Beyond the technical challenges, the Regional Laguna competition aims to cultivate essential soft skills. The emphasis on collaboration and respectful competition prepares students for the demands of a modern workforce. This holistic approach to education is a key component of Peñoles’ broader social responsibility initiatives.
The event’s theme this year, “Tierra de Dinosaurios” (“Land of Dinosaurs”), pays homage to Coahuila’s paleontological richness and identity. This thematic element adds another layer of engagement, encouraging students to connect their technical work with the region’s unique cultural and scientific heritage.
Industrias Peñoles’ commitment to youth development extends beyond robotics. The company recently announced the Carrera Meta 10K, a race that also serves as a tribute to the mezquite tree, further demonstrating its dedication to the community and environmental awareness. More information on the Carrera Meta 10K is available here.
The Regional Laguna robotics competition isn’t simply an event; it’s an investment in the future of Mexican engineering and technology. By providing opportunities for students to develop their skills and pursue their passions, Peñoles is helping to position the Comarca Lagunera as a national hub for innovation and STEM education. The competition serves as a powerful example of how industry partnerships can drive positive social change and empower the next generation of leaders.
Following the competition, organizers will analyze the results and gather feedback to improve future events. The focus will remain on providing a challenging, engaging, and educational experience for all participants. The next step for many of these students will be continuing their studies and pursuing careers in STEM fields, equipped with the skills and experience gained at the Regional Laguna competition.
Interested in following the action? Keep an eye on local news outlets in Torreón and the Industrias Peñoles website for updates and results from the competition. Share your thoughts on the importance of STEM education in the comments below!
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