If you’ve recently walked by the school fields and spotted a small, silent machine gliding across the grass, you’re not imagining things. It’s the newest member of the campus operations team: a Segway robot mower, introduced this month as part of a pilot program to modernize and improve field care.
According to Mr. Gaston Arellano, Head of Campus Operations, the Segway Navimow model was chosen for its smart technology, efficiency, and environmental benefits.
“We’re always looking for ways to improve how we care for our campus,” Mr. Arellano explained. “This mower allows us to maintain the fields consistently while saving time, energy, and resources.”
Unlike traditional mowers, the Segway Navimow doesn’t rely on boundary wires or constant supervision. Instead, it uses GPS-guided navigation and real-time mapping to move autonomously across large open spaces, adjusting its route as needed to avoid obstacles such as benches, trees, and even passing students. The mower’s built-in sensors help it mow in precise, efficient lines, keeping the school’s lawns perfectly trimmed.
The new system is being managed in partnership with Jeremy from Solutions and More, the school’s contracted provider for field maintenance. Mr. Arellano confirmed that the collaboration ensures the mower is properly configured and monitored during the testing phase. Maintenance staff can oversee the mower’s progress through a mobile app, which tracks mowing schedules, routes, and battery levels.
One of the mower’s biggest advantages is its quiet operation. Unlike gas-powered mowers, which can be disruptive during class hours, the Segway robot runs almost silently and can even operate during school days without interruption. It also automatically returns to its charging station when the battery runs low, then resumes mowing exactly where it left off.
Environmentally, the change makes a difference, too. The electric mower produces zero emissions and cuts grass into fine clippings that act as natural fertilizer, enriching the soil instead of requiring additional chemical treatments.
Students and teachers have already noticed the futuristic addition to the campus grounds. Many have stopped to take photos or watch it in action, amused by how calmly it works. Some have even nicknamed it “Trimothy.”
Mr. Arellano has even said he hopes students will weigh in on the naming decision, and encourages them to send him emails with fun, new, creative ideas. Students have also said how much they enjoy seeing it on campus.
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Mr. Arellano says the mower reflects a larger goal for the school’s operations department — combining innovation with sustainability.
“This is just one example of how technology can help us care for our campus in smarter, more sustainable ways,” he said. “If the test goes well, we’ll look at expanding to other areas.”
For now, the Segway mower continues its quiet rounds, ensuring that every blade of grass stays perfectly in place, no driving required.
