Investing in Innovation: Platinum’s Partnership with Team 6863
Our vision is to solve the complex technical problems of tomorrow by empowering the innovators of today. We are proud to announce our continued sponsorship and support of the Squirrels (Team 6863), a local FIRST® Robotics Competition team based in Woodbine, Maryland.
Comprised of dedicated junior and senior high school students from across the region, the Squirrels are more than a team—they are a homegrown incubator for Maryland’s future engineering and technology leaders.
A Legacy of Excellence and Grit
Since their rookie year in 2018, the Squirrels have consistently demonstrated what is possible when young minds are given the tools to succeed. Affiliated with NASA and the Office of Naval Research (ONR), the team has built a reputation for resilience and technical skill, earning accolades ranging from the Rookie Inspiration Award to becoming District Event Winners.
For the 2026 season, the team is competing with their latest creation, REBUILT™, a testament to their ability to iterate, troubleshoot, and master complex systems. Watching the team compete at events like the Pasadena and Severn District competitions inspires us to continue our mission of fostering local talent.
How We Support the Journey
Platinum’s (our parent company) involvement with the Squirrels and PIE3 (Partnership and Inspiration for Engineering Education and Entrepreneurship) is a multi-faceted investment in the local STEM ecosystem:
- Fueling Technical Agility: Robotics requires rapid prototyping and sophisticated software integration. Our support ensures the team has access to the high-grade materials and components needed to compete at a professional level.
- Mentorship and Professional Growth: Beyond the robot, we support the "business" of the team—helping students refine their technical writing, branding, and presentation skills. These are the essential "soft skills" that turn talented students into successful career professionals.
- Building a Tech Pipeline: By supporting a team that works alongside major agencies like NAVSEA and NASA, we are helping students see a clear path from their local workshop to the forefront of the global aerospace and defense industry.
Why We Give Back
As a company deeply rooted in AI infrastructure and advanced manufacturing, we see a reflection of our own values in the Squirrels’ workshop. Their commitment to "Gracious Professionalism" and creative problem-solving mirrors the approach we take with every client at Platinum.
