who we are
What is Aric?
The Westminster Autonomous Robotics Innovation Center (ARIC) is a training and educational facility in the heart of Westminster, Maryland.
This facility features various autonomous and robotics projects and hands on educational opportunities. ARIC will help students develop software, coding, and data analytics skills and experiences that are applicable to a variety of industries, not just robotics engineering.
We see ARIC as a first step in STEM education for students throughout Carroll County. Beyond simply teaching technical skills, STEM education fosters critical thinking, builds teamwork and communications skills, and nurtures students natural curiosity.
what we Do
Robotics innovation
The purpose of the Westminster Autonomous Robotics Innovation Center (ARIC) is to make robotics education fun and available for all members of the community.
An important part of ARIC is the comprehensive autonomous curriculum from Duckietown. The Duckietown program is an open source, worldwide initiative developed at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to provide interactive and inclusive AI and robotics education for all students. It also teaches student about coding languages, file systems and frameworks including Python, Docker, and Linux.
In addition to Duckietown, ARIC will include a Makerspace equipped with 3D printers and CNC routers. These machines will be open to the public, with the only expense being the materials used in projects.
ARIC will be a one-stop, hands-on, interactive facility that makes robotics exciting and accessible to Westminster residents of all ages.
Students
MAGIC is an official partner of the Carroll County Public School system. We’re excited to open the ARIC facility for field trips for K-12 students! It will also be available for after school activities and summer workshops for students grades 8-12 and undergraduate students.
Beginning this fall, students in grades 6-8 can join our Tech Titans Robotics Club!
Our full schedule of activities is forthcoming. Check back for more information and keep an eye on our events page as we work towards opening for full programming in Spring of 2024.
A community collaboration
The Westminster ARIC project would not have been possible without the efforts and contributions of our fantastic community partners, sponsors, and volunteers. They have been vital in our fundraising, curriculum and program development, and facility renovation efforts as we build ARIC from the ground up and create a community hub for innovation and education.
BECOME A SPONSOR OR PARTNER
COntact/visit us
Fill out our contact form or come visit us in person!
MAGIC Headquarters
38 West Main Street,
Westminster MD, 21157
ARIC Facility
31 West Main Street,
Westminster MD, 21157