Golden Ratio Robotics Team Set to Shine at International FIRST Championship in Houston

A Journey to Houston: Representing McHenry County

The Golden Ratio, a high school robotics team based in McHenry County, is gearing up for an exciting trip to Houston this April. After successfully qualifying for the FIRST Championship—an esteemed international competition that highlights the talents of youth in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)—this marks a remarkable second consecutive year for the team on this global stage.

Reflections on Last Year’s Performance

Last year, the Golden Ratio showcased their skills and completed the competition ranked 23rd out of 56 teams in their division. The experience provided them with valuable insights and lessons, setting the stage for an even more ambitious campaign this year. Scheduled to run from April 16-19, the championship will feature teams from over 50 countries, offering students a platform to not only compete but to engage in cultural exchange and camaraderie.

Recent Triumph: Inspire Award Win

In an invigorating lead-up to the FIRST Championship, the Golden Ratio clinched first place for the Inspire Award at the Illinois state competition held at Elgin Community College. This award is especially prestigious as it recognizes teams that excel across various domains—technical strategies, community outreach, and marketing. Last year, the Golden Ratio secured second place for the same accolade, reflecting their consistent commitment to excellence.

(Ryan Nolan works on coding one of the robots he and his teammates built on March 10, 2025, in Crystal Lake. Photo by Michelle Meyer)

Student Voices: A Shared Accomplishment

The significance of representing McHenry County on such a large platform isn’t lost on the students. Ryan Nolan, a member of the Golden Ratio and a student at Cary-Grove High School, remarked, “It’s such an honor. Not many teams go back-to-back.” This sentiment echoes the pride felt by the team and their commitment to continuous improvement.

Meet the 2025 Team: A Diverse Crew

The 2025 iteration of the Golden Ratio team brings together a diverse group of students: Ryan Nolan, Jackson Woestman, and Josiah Ryan from Cary-Grove, Josh Weston from Johnsburg High School, and Nehemiah Schultz, a home-schooled student from Island Lake. Together, they embody a collaborative spirit and a shared passion for robotics and innovation.

Coaching with Purpose: Melissa Ryan’s Vision

Melissa Ryan, the lead coach of the Golden Ratio, describes her team as “humble winners.” Under her guidance, the competition experience is transformed into a practical lesson in running an engineering business. Her focus on fostering real-world skills ensures that students learn not just about robotics but also about teamwork, project management, and business acumen.

Showcasing Engineering Excellence: Meet Raider

This year, the team’s robot, aptly named Raider, boasts impressive functionality. Weighing in at around 30 pounds, Raider can effectively grab items, deposit them into baskets, and even suspend itself by hanging from structures—all while executing these tasks swiftly and efficiently. Notably, Raider features a tribute to Skip Moore, the systems engineer and mentor to the team who passed away last year, showcasing the deep emotional investment and sense of community within the group.

Team Members’ Optimism: Best Yet to Come

Reflecting on their robot, Nehemiah Schultz expressed confidence, stating, “This is probably our best robot yet.” Their belief in their creation fuels their excitement about competing, underscoring their dedication to pushing the boundaries of what they can achieve.

Fundraising Efforts: Support Needed

To participate in the upcoming championship, the Golden Ratio needs to raise approximately $25,000. These funds will cover essential expenses such as supplies, registration, travel, and accommodation. While the team receives invaluable support from sponsors like Baxter and Swiss Automation, they are actively seeking additional backing from local businesses and community members who wish to invest in the future of these young innovators.

How to Contribute: Join the Journey

For those interested in supporting the Golden Ratio, donations can be made via their fundraising page on PayPal at Bit.ly/GoldenRatioMcHenryCounty. Every contribution helps the team achieve their ambitious goals and enhances their competitive journey.

Community Hub: Engagement and Education

The Golden Ratio operates out of Trinity Baptist Community Church located at 5918 S. Route 31 in Crystal Lake. This space serves not only as the team’s base for preparing for competitions but also as a community hub that encourages STEM activities for local residents. The team has previously hosted scrimmage meets with other Illinois teams, fostering a spirit of collaboration and learning. Furthermore, they have extended their mentorship to three robotics teams in Jamaica, helping them learn coding and robot creation.

(The Golden Ratio team at the FIRST Robotics state competition in March 2025. Photo provided by Melissa Ryan)

Cultivating Skills Beyond Robotics

For Melissa Ryan, the growth of her students extends far beyond the realms of STEM. “The soft skills they learn are equal, if not more valuable, than the technical skills,” she emphasizes, revealing her belief in a holistic educational approach. This reflects an understanding that successful careers in engineering or any field require robust interpersonal abilities, critical thinking, and effective communication.

The Role of Mentorship: Shaping Future Innovators

The mentorship provided to students in the Golden Ratio plays a vital role in shaping their interests and aspirations in STEM fields. By immersing students in both the technical and personal aspects of robotics, the team encourages them to cultivate passions that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Celebrating Achievements and Building Communities

As the Golden Ratio team prepares for its upcoming challenge in Houston, they not only celebrate their achievements but also the support of their community. Their journey symbolizes the spirit of innovation and collaboration present within McHenry County, reinforcing the importance of educational initiatives that inspire young minds.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Golden Ratio

With their eyes set on the FIRST Championship, the Golden Ratio’s upcoming challenge in Houston is not merely another competition; it’s a celebration of hard work, resilience, and community involvement. As they gear up for this adventure, both team members and supporters alike are united in their anticipation and pride.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation and Dedication

In conclusion, the Golden Ratio team exemplifies the best of high school robotics culture and community spirit. Their journey to Houston represents not just a quest for competitive glory but a significant opportunity to inspire future generations. With great partnerships, collective effort, and an unwavering passion for innovation, the Golden Ratio is poised to continue making a lasting impact in STEM education for years to come.

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