Date Posted: December 13, 2025
Southern Crescent Technical College (SCTC) is excited to announce that students from Henderson Middle School and Jackson High School will proudly participate in the upcoming VEX Robotics tournaments scheduled for January 2026. Henderson Middle School will compete on January 17, and Jackson High School will compete on January 24. This milestone marks an important step forward in expanding STEM opportunities for students in Butts County and deserves to be celebrated by students, their families, the Butts County School System, and the wider community.
SCTC has partnered closely with the Butts County School System to bring advanced robotics opportunities to local students through the launch of VEX Robotics Clubs at Henderson Middle School and Jackson High School. Nearly 50 middle and high school students in Butts County are already involved, gaining early hands-on exposure to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Dr. Irvin Clark, President of Southern Crescent Technical College, emphasized the significance of this moment, stating “Southern Crescent Technical College is committed to preparing the workforce of tomorrow by investing in opportunities today. These VEX Robotics Clubs are more than extracurricular activities. They are gateways to careers in high-demand industries that drive economic growth in our communities. Seeing students from Henderson Middle School and Jackson High School step into these competitive arenas in January is inspiring, and we are proud to support their journey into advanced fields like robotics and automation.”
Through these clubs, students design, build, and program robots while developing essential skills in coding, problem-solving, teamwork, and engineering design. Using VEX Robotics platforms, students experience the same tools and challenges found in real-world careers in automation and advanced manufacturing right here in Butts County.
Dr. Sohmer McKibben, CTAE Director for the Butts County School System, shared her enthusiasm for the initiative, stating “Southern Crescent Technical College’s partnership with Butts County School System’s CTAE Program has given students a powerful opportunity to discover their potential through VEX Robotics. Seeing Henderson Middle and Jackson High students step into a competitive arena this January is truly exciting. Their success is something our families, our district, and our entire community can be proud of.”
Dr. Suzan Harris, Principal of Henderson Middle School, added “Our partnership with Southern Crescent Technical College has opened up a world of exposure and opportunities for students who were otherwise disenfranchised. Our robotics students have found their people.”
Participation in VEX Robotics also introduces students to SCTC’s academic pathways in Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation, creating a direct bridge from middle and high school activities to college-level study and future careers in high-demand, high-growth fields.
Looking ahead, the upcoming Robotics, Automation, Advanced Manufacturing, and Economic Development (RAAME) Center will further support workforce development in the region. Scheduled for completion in Fall 2026, the RAAME Center will provide expanded training, industry collaboration, and access to cutting-edge technologies that will benefit Butts County students and the broader community.
With Henderson Middle School and Jackson High School students preparing to step into competition in January, Southern Crescent Technical College celebrates a shared achievement for students, families, educators, and the entire Butts County community. This initiative represents more than a tournament. It is an investment in the future workforce and economic vitality of the region.