HONOLULU – Recognizing the need to support those on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic, three robotics students from Assets School built and designed a robot which is able to deliver items into a patient’s room while minimizing human interaction. The robot, which is controlled by a remote control, essentially acts as a rolling cart.
High school juniors Owen Burke, William Wong, and Christopher Noon started work on the project in June. They were guided by their Assets School robotics teacher Peter Han. Last month, the students completed work on the robot and have graciously donated it to The Queen’s Medical Center.
“We are truly appreciative of the kind gesture and the hard work these three students put in to designing and building this robot. This is a shining example of how our young leaders can make a difference in our community,” said Jill Hoggard Green, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Queen’s Health System. “It is these types of students who will create the next set of tools for our clinicians to do exactly what they need to do, which is to reduce pain and suffering.”
In a surprise announcement made yesterday during the robot presentation and demonstration at The Queen’s Medical Center, Green presented the robotics students and their teacher with a $5,000 donation on behalf of Queen’s to go towards the school’s robotics program. “When I heard about these students’ endeavor I was inspired. This financial contribution will help to ensure more students, especially younger ones, have opportunities to learn and grow using robotics,” said Green.
“We cannot thank the Queen’s leadership team enough for their generosity. Their financial support of our robotics program will make a significant difference. We thank all those working at Queen’s and all the frontline medical professionals for what they are doing to keep our community safe and healthy,” said Assets Head of School Ryan Masa. “I am so proud of Owen, Chris, and William. Their project represents what makes Assets such an incredible school community – creative students, authentic experiences, individualized learning, developing your strengths and using them to imagine a better future.”
Plans are for the robot to be implemented in Queen’s new Advanced Respiratory and Emerging Infectious Disease Unit on Queen Emma Tower 9 Diamond Head.
“We are extremely grateful to Owen, William, and Christopher for their willingness to step forward to help our frontline caregivers. This robot will help our caregivers deliver high quality care in a safe environment. We applaud their efforts and encourage them to continue thinking about ways they can get involved and be a part of the solution,” said Jason Chang, Chief Operating Officer of The Queen’s Health System and President of The Queen’s Medical Center.
“This isn’t just a robot,” said Assets School Teacher and Robotics Coach Peter Han. “This is a lesson in humility, hard work, and collaboration. I am extremely happy for this student-led project to happen and do what we can as STEM learners to contribute to our local community.”
