ExxonMobil scientists inspired future innovators at The John Cooper School during a hands-on visit that introduced students to robotics, digital reality, and engineering careers.
The highlight of the experience was SNOOP, ExxonMobil's robot dog, which demonstrated how robotics are used in industrial settings to improve safety, efficiency, and operations. Students also explored how robotics, drones, and digital technologies work together within larger digital ecosystems to solve complex, real-world challenges.
During the presentation, ExxonMobil professionals discussed the importance of systems thinking, data interoperability, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, helping students connect classroom learning with technologies shaping tomorrow's workforce.
Reflecting on the visit, Athicha Dhanormchitphong, Digital Reality Ecosystem Program Lead at ExxonMobil, said, "While SNOOP was certainly the star of the show, the conversation went far beyond hardware. We explored how robotics and drones function within a broader digital ecosystem, where systems-level thinking is key to solving complex industrial challenges."
Dhanormchitphong also praised Cooper students' enthusiasm, noting that "seeing that level of curiosity and energy from students in robotics and visual arts was incredibly fulfilling."
"Experiences like this help students see how the concepts they're learning today are shaping the industries of tomorrow," said Dr. Stephen M. Popp, Head of School. "We're grateful to ExxonMobil for investing their time and expertise in inspiring our students and demonstrating the exciting possibilities that exist at the intersection of technology, creativity, and problem-solving."
Partnerships like this give Cooper students meaningful opportunities to engage with industry leaders, explore emerging technologies, and see firsthand how classroom learning translates into real-world innovation. The School is grateful to the ExxonMobil Digital Reality Ecosystem team for sharing their expertise and inspiring the next generation of engineers, designers, and innovators.