William Sobral

I am a robotics engineering student at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, dedicated to advancing autonomous systems and computer vision through rigorous technical development and innovative problem-solving.

View Projects

About

As a robotics engineering student at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (expected graduation: May 2026), I specialize in the integration of autonomous systems and computer vision to address complex engineering challenges. My career began in Colorado Springs, where I established Grover Robotics to promote coding literacy among young learners through interactive hardware projects. This foundation drives my current academic and professional pursuits, which include developing sophisticated robotic systems and contributing to technical discourse through my blog, where I explore topics such as educational pathways and technological innovation. My work reflects a commitment to precision, creativity, and societal impact.

Technical Proficiencies: C/C++, Python, PyTorch, OpenCV, Flask, Docker, SolidWorks, MATLAB, AWS, and additional frameworks.

Projects

Autonomous Robot

Autonomous Robot (WPI, 2024)

Developed an ATmega 32U4-based autonomous robot employing A* pathfinding and OpenMV vision systems for precise navigation. Implemented a non-blocking state machine in C/C++ to orchestrate 20 distinct operational procedures.

Lab Assistant Management Platform

Lab Assistant Management Platform (WPI, 2024)

Designed a Flask-based platform utilizing SQLAlchemy and Bootstrap to facilitate coordination between professors and lab assistants. Directed development of the back-end architecture, SSO API integration, Docker containerization, and AWS deployment.

Grover Robotics

Grover Robotics (Colorado Springs, 2017-22)

Founded a robotics initiative to advance coding literacy among youth, leveraging Arduino-based platforms. Engineered 3D-printed chassis using Fusion 360, developed custom ATmega breakout boards, and oversaw production scaling.

Professional Experience

Research Assistant, Autonomous Vehicles and Mobility Institute (Present)

Conducting research on simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) for off-road unmanned ground vehicles, optimizing path planning through advanced telemetry integration.

Engineering Intern, Ransford Engineering (08/22 - 05/23)

Constructed two high-performance 3D printers, achieving an acceleration of 7000 mm/s² to enhance rapid prototyping capabilities.

Engineering Intern, Crawford Manufacturing (06/21 - 12/22)

Designed and programmed a robotic drill press using custom C software, improving production efficiency through automation.

Founder, Springs Robotics (2020-22)

Established a 3D printer repair service, providing diagnostic and repair solutions for hardware and firmware issues to clients in Colorado Springs.

Contact

I welcome inquiries regarding collaborative projects, technical consultations, or professional opportunities. Please feel free to reach out.

Alternatively, contact me directly:

Email: wsobral@wpi.edu