The new robotics center in Macomb County, Macomb Automation and Robotics Zone (MARZ) had its grand opening on Friday, Oct. 18, 2024. I joined leaders in education, business and economic development to get a first look.
As a mother to a 9-year-old son that is already interested in science and mathematics, I was interested in getting a first-hand look at what Macomb County robotics is all about.
What is MARZ?
MARZ is designed to support FIRST and other STEM programming. It provides a place for organized robotics teams (we have quite a few in Macomb!) to access needed tools, like 3D printers, and interact with industry professionals.
Participating in STEM activities, or more specifically, FIRST Robotics, helps young people prepare for future careers.
The grand opening event revealed space for teams to work
The grand opening event took place at the Advanced Manufacturing Commercialization Center (AMCC), which is operated by SAE Government Technologies (SAE GT). This building houses the new robotics center and is a mix of office space and industrial space that was needed for MARZ.
Robotics students from Macomb County high schools were there to speak about the impact joining robotics has had on their high school careers and what they are choosing to do in the future after they graduate.
After the FIRST Robotics Teams students and community members spoke, it was time to see the robots in action on the regulation-sized field. Having a regulation-sized field is important because the FIRST teams will be training to go head-to-head with other teams at competitions.
This field was purchased with funds made available through the Michigan Economic Corporation’s Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation (ODAI) and BAE Systems.
The students from the FIRST Robotics Teams showed how they controlled their robots and how they could have their robots pick up foam pieces and toss them around the ring. I was surprised by how fast these robots could move and spin around.
How businesses in Macomb County help make MARZ possible
The MARZ center also has a CNC machine and 3D printer for the teams to use. The center is made possible by donations and grants and MARZ supporters — including AT&T, BAE Systems, Comcast, GM, GM Employees, Industrial Resource Group, ITC Holdings, Macomb County Development of Planning and Economic Development, Oakland University, Office of Aerospace and Defense and Verizon.
“Since 2022 alone, MARZ has hosted more than 50 outreach workshops for over 300 students, and we’ve provided assistance to 24 teams to help them be more competitive with resources and support for team members,” says Vicky Rowinski, Director of Macomb County Planning and Economic Development. “We are actively seeking grants and donations to help us reach even more and acquire additionally needed resources.”
For more information on living and learning in Macomb County, visit Make Macomb Your Home. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s A Family Guide to Macomb County.
