On November 15, the Combat Robotics Club, known on campus as “Kiwi” Combat Robotics and part of Fork Union Military Academy’s Engineering Club, competed at the RABIT Harvest Havoc competition held at Regency Mall in Richmond. The team went up against some of the region’s strongest contenders, including Trainwreck, the top-ranked one-pound combat robot in the country.

Cadets Landon Thielka, William Jordan, and Vance Weatherman, led by team captain Chrysander Rahardjo, showed determination and advanced to the semifinals of the consolation bracket, finishing the day with an impressive 2–2 record. Throughout the competition, team members supported Rahardjo by assisting with critical repairs, maintaining their station, and encouraging each other. Along the way, they gained valuable hands-on experience, strengthened friendships, and saw firsthand how unpredictable and fast-paced combat robotics can be.

In the engineering lab, cadets use these lessons every day. They study how to design strong parts by looking at different materials and the tough conditions robots face in combat. By studying the design and choices made for the team's current robot, Mini Kiwi 3, students get ready to build their own robots in the future, putting what they learn in class to the test.

Kiwi Combat Robotics continues to grow in skill, teamwork, and innovation, representing the spirit of curiosity and resilience at Fork Union Military Academy.