At RCC, we believe that strong communities build strong businesses. That is why we are proud to support initiatives that inspire the next generation, especially when those initiatives are led by members of our own team.
One of those leaders is Corey Gluesing, who has spent the past eight years mentoring the BOLD Warrior Robotics Team 7858. He has helped students develop real-world skills in engineering, programming, and teamwork.
A Passion for Mentorship and Innovation
Corey serves as one of several dedicated mentors guiding the team, bringing his expertise in software programming and electronics. Alongside fellow mentors with backgrounds in mechanical engineering and machining, the group works together to give students hands-on experience in building and competing with high-performance robots.
Programs like FIRST Robotics do more than teach technical skills. They build confidence, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration. These are the same qualities we value at RCC as we continue to innovate for fuel and propane businesses.
Competing on a Global Stage
Each year, the team participates in the FIRST Robotics Competition, where thousands of teams worldwide are given the same challenge and just six weeks to design and build a robot.
This season, Team 7858 competed at the Minnesota Bluff Country Regional in Winona, facing off against 41 teams in a series of fast-paced matches. After 76 qualification rounds, they earned a strong 14th-place ranking and advanced to the championship bracket.
The result was a second-place finish, the team’s highest achievement since forming the team in 2019.
For Corey and the team, this milestone represents more than a trophy. It reflects growth, persistence, and teamwork.
Engineering Challenges in Action
This year’s competition challenged teams to design robots capable of collecting and scoring game pieces while navigating obstacles and executing both autonomous and driver-controlled functions.
The team faced strategic design decisions, like how to handle size constraints or field obstacles and programming autonomous routines (the robot executes a skill on its own). Students experienced the kind of real-world problem solving that drives innovation in industries just like ours.
It is hands-on learning at its best, and it is shaping the future workforce.
Powered by Community Support
Programs like BOLD Robotics rely heavily on local support. Rural Computer Consultants is honored to be part of that effort.
As Corey shared, the team operates entirely on donations from businesses in the community. RCC has proudly been one of its consistent supporters.
This kind of partnership reflects what we stand for:
- Investing in people
- Supporting innovation
- Strengthening the communities we serve
Why It Matters
At RCC, we believe in empowering people, whether that means helping fuel companies operate more efficiently or supporting students as they explore careers in technology and engineering.
Corey’s involvement with BOLD Robotics is a great example of how our team lives out those values every day.
Looking Ahead
We are incredibly proud of Corey and the entire BOLD Warrior Robotics Team for their hard work and achievements this season.
We are also proud to support programs that inspire the next generation of innovators, because the future of our industry and our communities depends on it.
Congratulations to Team 7858 on an incredible season. We cannot wait to see what you accomplish next.