Robotics Club 2026

The Robotics Club at Iowa State University is focused on fostering technical knowledge and interest in robotics among students. Every year, we participate in competitions where club members have the opportunity to apply robotics to real-world problems. We also host general meetings to introduce robotics concepts, research, and real-world applications, inviting professors and students to speak on various topics related to robotics. We run three projects: the Autonomous Snowplow, the Lower Body Exoskeleton, and Combat Robotics.

The Autonomous Snowplow team is tasked with clearing a predetermined area of snow while detecting and dodging obstacles. In January 2025, the team traveled to Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where they were able to test and compete with their design. This year, the team is finalizing the newly redesigned frame while improving and updating pathfinding and obstacle detection.

All of the Exoskeletons at ACE 2025

The Lower Body Exoskeleton is designed and created to help a first responder in a time of crisis. This is done by assisting the pilot's movements and augmenting their strength. Last year, the team traveled to ACE 2025, hosted by the University of Michigan. There, the team was able to compete and gain a large amount of valuable information. This year, the team is working on a full redesign in order to create a more ergonomic robot with more intuitive controls. The original plan for competition this year was to compete in ACE 2026, hosted by the University of Sherbrook; however, that competition was canceled. We are currently working on alternative plans, with an exhibition planned for the end of May. 

Our 30lb Combat Robot at Robobrawl 

The Combat Robotics team is dedicated to creating and fighting robots, designated by weight class. This semester, the team is focused on updating and improving our 30lb robot. Last year, our team placed in the top 10 at Robobrawl’s 10th annual event—North America’s largest 30lb competition. Building on that success, we’re planning several key design changes to stay competitive in an increasingly strong field. We're also excited to host our first internal plastic 1lb competition in the fall, giving our new members an opportunity to develop their skills, gain hands-on experience, and grow within the team. Robobrawl is hosted by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign on March 28th and 29th.

The Robotics Club at Iowa State University has continued to grow throughout the past year, and we need your help to support our members and prepare for the future! Donations go directly toward paying for materials, manufacturing costs, and future travel expenses to attend competitions. 

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If you want to learn more about our club, please check out our website!

Iowa State University • Student Organizations

We're also on Twitter/X @ISU_Robotics!