Instructor Michael Chenier and grade 12 student Cordell Robinson both have something in common.
They love Star Wars.
Chenier, who is an instructor in West Ferris Intermediate & Secondary School’s science and technology program called “STEAM”, wanted to connect his love for the science fiction series to the classroom.
Cordell was more than happy to oblige.
“From the moment I met Mr. Chenier he has been a giant Star Wars fan and he has always wanted to build a R2D2 so I told him that this year I would help him actually get it done,” said Robinson, who has taken the manufacturing and 3D design course at the local high school.
Chenier says the overall concept for the STEAM course is pretty simple, it is creating projects that are quick, fun and will engage the students.
“Cordell worked on a R2D2 prototype for an R2D2 Robot. Right now it doesn't look like an R2D2 but it does in terms of the components that go into an R2,” said Chenier.
Chenier is also overseeing another project with Robinson who is also trying to build another small Star Wars universe robot called the "BB8."
Robinson is building the body of both Star Wars robots using the school’s 3D printer.
Once the robot is completed, Robinson hopes to put the well known Star Wars robot to good use at the school.
“I think we are going to paint it Trojan green and use it for events we go out to, like Trojan Free for Cancer. It just draws a little more attention to us so I want to make it look pretty cool.”