STUDENT IMPACT
Our robotics program pairs high school students with extremely knowledgeable and experienced volunteer mentors to conceptualize, design, and fabricate a robot for entry into the FIRST Robotics Competition. The students in our program are exposed to real-world engineering challenges and gain significant knowledge about STEM topics which gives them a clearer direction and advantage in college and their careers. Over 90% of our program's graduates have gone on to attend college and earn their degree.
ALUMNI TESTIMONIES
Ethan Chan
"The Beach Bots developed my critical thinking, expanded my technical skills, and gave me resources to exhibit my knowledge. Starting in 2012, I was very shy and unsure of my direction. The team's mentors colored my blank slate by teaching me problem solving, designing, machining, assembly, and many more facets of robotics. I eventually found my footing in programming. After seeing my code in action on the field, I now hope to be a programmer. However, my time with the Beach Bots has been so much more than just robots. I was given the opportunity to edit videos for the team's media, and was assisted in putting on summer robotics camps. All of the skills I learned and used from the Beach Bots has given me a step ahead of my peers in college. Because of the team, I am now confident in working with others and in the direction of my life."
Shane Palmerino
"I began my time with The Beach Bots in 2005 as a freshman in high school. I'd always had an interest in understanding how things worked and thought I'd pursue some degree in science or engineering. My experience on the team thoroughly cemented this decision for me and helped me realize that mechanical engineering was my calling. Through countless hours spent working with the engineers and mentors of The Beach Bots, I gained knowledge and experience in high school that my peers did not gain till their junior or senior years in college or well into their careers. I now work full-time at Raytheon where I find myself heavily engaged in design teams consisting of co-workers who are easily 10+ years older than me. There is no doubt in my mind that I would not be where I am today without the confidence, experience, and knowledge I gained through my time on The Beach Bots."
COMMUNITY IMPACT
In addition to participation in the FIRST Robotics Competition, our team emphasizes service and outreach to the local community. Watch the video below to learn more.