Destrehan High School’s Robotics Legacy: Brian Young and Team 3039
Mentorship in STEM education often requires a delicate balance between technical guidance and personal development. At Destrehan High School, robotics coach Brian Young has mastered this balance, leading FIRST Robotics Competition Team 3039, also known as Wildcat Robotics, to become a cornerstone of technical excellence in the Greater Modern Orleans Area.
The Woodie Flowers Finalist Award: A Student-Driven Honor
Brian Young’s impact on his students was recently recognized with the prestigious Woodie Flowers Finalist Award at the FIRST Regional Robotics Competition. This honor is particularly significant given that it is student-chosen; each year, students submit essays to nominate a mentor who has demonstrated outstanding motivation through communication.
Named after FIRST co-creator Dr. Woodie Flowers and established in 1996, the award recognizes adult mentors who challenge their students to be succinct and clear in their communications. For Young, the award serves as a testament to his team’s growth and their understanding of his mentorship style.
The Origins of Wildcat Robotics
The journey of Team 3039 began nearly 20 years ago when ITT of St. Rose approached Young with the idea of establishing a robotics program at his alma mater, Destrehan High School. Young officially formed the team in 2009, integrating the program into his electricity class.
Since its inception, the team has focused on two primary goals: maintaining a highly competitive presence in robotics competitions and promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education throughout the Greater New Orleans region.
A Philosophy of “Tough Love” for Real-World Success
Young’s approach to coaching extends beyond the mechanics of robotics. He employs a philosophy of “tough love,” believing that pushing students to meet high standards prepares them for the challenges of both college and professional life.
“Sometimes, it’s tough love … you’re tough on them because you want to prepare them, not just for college, but for real life,” Young stated in a recent interview.
This rigorous preparation ensures that students don’t just learn how to build a robot, but how to communicate effectively, handle criticism, and strive for excellence in high-pressure environments.
Key Takeaways: Team 3039 and Brian Young
- Team Identity: FIRST Robotics Competition Team 3039, known as Wildcat Robotics.
- Foundation: Established in 2009 by Brian Young via his electricity class at Destrehan High School.
- Major Recognition: Brian Young received the student-nominated Woodie Flowers Finalist Award for excellence in motivation and communication.
- Community Impact: The program actively promotes STEM education across the Greater New Orleans Area.
- Mentorship Style: Focuses on “tough love” to prepare students for the real world and higher education.
The Future of STEM at Destrehan High
By combining technical skill with rigorous communication standards, Destrehan High School’s robotics program continues to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. As Team 3039 continues to compete and mentor, it remains a vital pipeline for the next generation of engineers and technologists in Louisiana.
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