In Fort Wayne, Indiana, a group of eager high school students, college alumni, and mentors gathered at Electric Works this weekend to tackle a tough task: designing and building a 120 pound robot from scratch in just 72 hours. The event, known as Robot in 3 Days, kicked off on Saturday afternoon and runs through Tuesday noon, hosted by local nonprofit BioNanomics to spark interest in robotics and biology among young minds.

Event Sparks Excitement in Local Community

Teams arrived at Electric Works, a bustling campus that drew about 63,000 visitors last year, ready to push their skills to the limit. Organizers set the clock ticking at noon on Saturday, giving participants exactly three days to complete their robots.

This challenge mirrors the fast paced world of real engineering projects. Mentors like Cameron Elder explained that it condenses what usually takes six weeks into a short sprint. Students learn key processes, test ideas, and gain inspiration for the upcoming FIRST Robotics Competition season, which just started with events across the country, including a kickoff in Maine.

Local media captured the buzz, with photos showing focused groups huddled over tools and parts. The nonprofit BioNanomics, based in Fort Wayne, created this marathon to blend biology and tech, encouraging creative problem solving.

One team shared how they plan to incorporate sensors for better navigation, drawing from recent advances in affordable robotics kits.

How Teams Tackle the 72 Hour Deadline

Building a large robot under time pressure demands smart planning. Participants start with basic designs, then move to assembly, wiring, and testing.

First, they sketch ideas on paper or software, focusing on the robot’s core functions like movement and task handling. Materials include metal frames, motors, and electronics, all weighing up to 120 pounds when done.

Mentors guide the process, sharing tips from past competitions. For example, they stress efficient power use to avoid breakdowns during demos.

By day two, prototypes take shape, with teams troubleshooting issues like faulty connections. The goal is a working model by Tuesday, ready for a showcase.

This setup teaches resilience, as delays can happen from supply shortages or design flaws. Yet, the tight timeline builds teamwork and quick thinking, skills valued in tech careers.

Broader Impact on Education and Innovation

Events like this boost STEM education in the region. Fort Wayne has seen growing interest in robotics, with local high schools achieving high graduation rates and perfect streaks in some programs.

BioNanomics aims to make tech accessible, offering makerspaces for all ages. This challenge ties into national trends, where robotics competitions inspire thousands of students each year.

Recent data shows participation in FIRST Robotics grew by 15 percent in 2025, with teams building bots for games that mimic real world challenges. The 2026 season predictions include themes around sustainability, pushing innovators to think green.

In Fort Wayne, this event could lead to more local tech jobs, as companies like those assembling timber homes with robots expand in the area.

Here are key benefits for participants:

• Hands on experience in engineering and coding.
• Networking with mentors from colleges and industry.
• Boosted confidence from completing a high pressure project.
• Potential scholarships or invites to bigger competitions.

Challenges and Triumphs During the Marathon

Not everything goes smoothly in a 72 hour build. Teams face hurdles like limited sleep, with some working through the night to meet deadlines.

One common issue is balancing weight and functionality, ensuring the robot moves without tipping. Past events have seen creative fixes, like using 3D printed parts for quick repairs.

Success stories emerge too. In similar challenges, teams have built robots that climb obstacles or sort objects, impressing judges.

This year’s group includes diverse participants, from beginners to veterans, fostering inclusive learning. Organizers provide snacks and breaks to keep energy high.

As the clock winds down, excitement builds for the final reveals, where robots demonstrate their abilities in front of peers and families.

Looking Ahead to Future Robotics Events

The Robot in 3 Days challenge sets the stage for the full FIRST season, with district events starting soon. Fort Wayne’s Electric Works continues to host community activities, from farmers markets to tech workshops.

This event highlights how local initiatives can drive innovation, especially as robotics integrates into everyday life, like in manufacturing or healthcare.

Experts predict that by 2030, robotics jobs will increase by 20 percent, making skills from these challenges highly valuable.

For those interested, similar marathons happen nationwide, offering chances to join or volunteer.

We encourage you to share this story with friends who love tech or education, and drop a comment below on your thoughts about robotics challenges. Have you ever built something under time pressure?