Neobots moves to Hellings

Today, 30 November, the Neobots Foundation is moving to its new space at Hellings. Over the coming weeks, we will continue fitting out the space and complete the finishing touches, so that the young people can soon get started building and programming robots.

Neobots uses the space for its technical youth programme, with two robot teams: First Lego League (FLL) for children aged 9 to 14 and First Tech Challenge (FTC) for young people from around 14 years of age. The group will be present on Friday evenings from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, with the possibility of an additional evening. Their permanent workplace is on the mezzanine floor in the sawmill.

As a sponsor of Neobots, we are especially proud that the foundation can now get to work in the middle of our factory. Paul Hellings: “Curiosity is the basis of technology. We couldn’t pass up the opportunity to offer these children a place in our factory. This way, they are inspired by the environment and our colleagues.”

Supervisor Roel van der Zanden: “This is exactly what we want for the children: a place where technology becomes tangible, where they are motivated to build and program. The fact that they are here in the middle of the factory offers great opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing.”

Many parties were involved in furnishing the space. We are grateful for their contributions:

• MRTN-sign (Maarten van Uitert) – advertising and new logo

• V.d Vleuten Elektrotechniek en Beveiliging – LED lighting

• Biggelaar Koudetechniek – air conditioning

• BouwPartner Boxtel – wooden panels for panelling

• Kluijtmans Zonweringen – sun blinds

• BMN IJzerwaren (John van Engeland) – hinges and locks

• Van Egmond / Hein Manders – PLC for programming lessons

• VDZ Aqua (Roel himself) – various supplies

• In addition, financial contributions from Hubo, Installatiebedrijf Peters, Bright Accountants & Adviseurs, Drie-O Automatisering and Dommelzicht

Thanks to this support and the hard work of volunteers and members, led by Daan Ketelaars and Roel van der Zanden, Neobots will soon be fully operational in their new home base. For the time being, Neobots will remain here indefinitely, and the collaboration with our colleagues in the factory will be a great opportunity for both parties.