BERWYN, PA — Keystone STEM Alliance engaged more than 100 students directly and reached more than 1,200 through STEM outreach during its first year, giving the Berwyn nonprofit a broader base as it prepares for the 2027 robotics season and expands student programming.
The organization marked its first anniversary Saturday at its Berwyn workshop, where student leaders reviewed the development of BLAST Robotics, growth of its STEM2Ignite outreach program and priorities for the coming year.
Keystone STEM Alliance said students, mentors, parents and community members contributed more than 2,500 volunteer hours during the year. More than 40 volunteers participated, while more than 14 sponsors and partners supported its programs.
The nonprofit also reported that another 500 young people were introduced to STEM activities through youth conferences and other events.
Keystone STEM Alliance generated more than $75,000 in revenue and support during 2025, according to its federal tax return. Funding included contributions and grants, program service revenue and membership dues.
Resources were directed toward competition registration, robot materials and components, tools, equipment, software and workshop operations.
Eadeh Enterprises contributed workshop space in Berwyn, providing a location for robotics activities, student workshops and other programs.
“Eadeh Enterprises’ support gave our students something especially important during our first year: a place where they could meet regularly, build, experiment and learn together,” Keystone STEM Alliance Director and Lead Coach Murahari Ponugoti said.
BLAST Robotics earned three awards during its first year: the Gardener Award at RampRiot in 2025, the Rookie All Star Award at FMA Central in 2026 and the Rising Stars Award at FMA Philadelphia in 2026.
Student leaders Virat Ponugoti, Vivaan Krishna Ponugoti, Mayon Saha and Priyanka Paxula presented the organization’s first-year results and discussed technical, organizational and outreach goals for the offseason.
“We want to continue growing the team, develop more student leaders at every level and build on what we accomplished during our first season,” said Vivaan Krishna Ponugoti, student captain of BLAST Robotics.
The organization is preparing for the FIRST Robotics Competition season beginning in January 2027. Its immediate priorities include offseason training, leadership development, community outreach and expansion of STEM2Ignite.
The anniversary program also included a presentation by MakClan Digital Chief Executive Officer Nitin Makdani on professional networking and documenting technical, leadership and community experience through LinkedIn.
As it enters its second year, Keystone STEM Alliance plans to continue developing BLAST Robotics while expanding opportunities for students in technical training, leadership and career preparation.
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