In the 21st century, technology continues to advance at an unprecedented gait and individuals who can seamlessly blend traditional mechanical skills with cutting-edge robotics expertise are becoming invaluable.
In this article, we delve into the life and work of 21-year-old Joshua Reece, a robotics enthusiast and graduate of Guyana Industrial Training Centre (GITC).
Joshua is well-known for his work with STEMGuyana and Team Guyana Robotics, as he coaches, and mentors youth at various STEM clubs. He is also a master Trainer at STEM Guyana.
In 2019, Joshua was a member of the team who participated in the First Global Challenge(FGC) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. His team won the Albert Einstein Gold Medal for Excellence in the Competition. He was also a team member in 2022, participating in the First Global Challenge(FGC).
Joshua was born on 15th August 2001 to Godfrey Reece and Sabrina Simon at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) and grew up in East Ruimveldt, with his siblings.
He has a background in Architecture and Masonry and hails from East Ruimveldt, Georgetown.
Joshua served as a Masonry Instructor at the Guyana Industrial Training Centre (GITC). He is a cyclist and freelance bicycle mechanic.
Reece enjoys the mechanical aspect of robotics as it allows him the opportunity to work with his hands and be creative. Joshua believes that STEM and robotics would be of benefit to Guyana, as it can assist in solving many problems technologically.
“I have always been naturally curious about technology, robotics, and how things work,” he said when asked what made him opt to do robotics and join STEMGuyana.
He thoroughly enjoys the process of problem-solving and finding innovative solutions using technology.
Further he added, “I recognise the valuable educational and career prospects that engaging in robotics can offer. By participating in STEM-related activities, he aims to develop his skills in programming, engineering, and teamwork that may open doors to various professions and industries. I am particularly drawn to robotics because of its hands-on approach to learning.”
Joshua believes that by building and programming robots, he can gain a deeper insight of science and technology concepts which may assist in enhancing his critical thinking and creativity skills. He values the opportunity to work in teams and collaborate effectively with others.
“Robotics often involves teamwork, and I believe that through this experience, I can improve my collaboration and communication skills, while also learning from and contributing to a group of like-minded individuals. Robotics in general provides a platform for me to express his creativity and innovation. I am always excited about designing and building robots that can perform tasks and solve problems. This process encourages out-of-the-box thinking and allows him to push the boundaries of what is possible,” Joshua mentioned.
Joshua’s main challenge was working with a diverse team and getting to understand people as we all came from various backgrounds. He noted that it can be a bit difficult when it comes to adhering to rules. However, to overcome this challenge, Joshua and his teammates, schedule days where they can hang out, break the ice and communicate with each other.
In the future, Joshua aspires to become a Civil Engineer and Technician.
When asked for advice, Reece stressed, “Follow your dreams and aspirations, and never give up.”
