BERWYN, PA — Keystone STEM Alliance has completed its 2026 Summer Robotics Camp, a weeklong program designed to introduce local students to engineering, programming and leadership skills while expanding the pipeline of young talent entering science and technology fields.
The camp, delivered by student leaders from BLAST Robotics, FIRST Robotics Competition Team 10989, enrolled 14 students entering fourth through ninth grades and paired them with eight high school counselors and staff members, creating a two-to-one mentor-to-student ratio.
Participants used VEX IQ robotics kits to design, build and program robots while working in teams to solve engineering challenges and compete in robotics contests.
The program also included outdoor activities and leadership exercises intended to build communication and teamwork skills alongside technical training.
A speaker series brought local business and nonprofit leaders to the camp, including EADEH Enterprises Chief Executive Officer Stacey Ballard, Ann’s Heart Leadership Institute Executive Director Kristen McGee and DR Alleva LLC owner and Rotary leader Dave Alleva.
The speakers discussed entrepreneurship, leadership and community engagement, encouraging students to pursue careers in technical fields while contributing to their communities.
The camp reflects Keystone STEM Alliance’s broader effort to connect STEM education with workforce development and prepare students for careers in robotics, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, engineering and skilled trades.
BLAST Robotics has emerged as one of Pennsylvania’s newer youth STEM organizations. During its rookie season in the FIRST Robotics Competition, Team 10989 earned the Rookie All-Star Award and Rising All-Star Award and qualified for the FIRST Mid-Atlantic District Championship.
The organization credited community partnerships with helping expand access to STEM education, including support from EADEH Enterprises, the Chester County Community Foundation and the AEO Better World Foundation.
Looking ahead, Keystone STEM Alliance is seeking corporate and philanthropic support to establish a Maker Lab and Advanced Fabrication Lab in Chester County.
The proposed facility would provide access to technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence, CNC machining, 3D printing and industrial automation while supporting apprenticeship and workforce training programs for students and adults.
The organization envisions the center as a regional hub for STEM education and workforce development, designed to connect classroom learning with employer demand in advanced manufacturing, information technology and other high-demand industries.
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