Who: 2nd-5th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 9:00AM – 11:30AM
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Description: Students will build autonomous cars that can detect objects and steer away to avoid collisions using sensors and microcontrollers.Students will explore real-world applications of robotics, sensing, and autonomous navigation.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration is required. Visit: https://form.jotform.com/conklin/botsiq-programs-2025-26
Who: 6th-9th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 12:00PM – 2:30PM
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Description: Students will build smart cars using micro:bits and various sensors, then collaborate to create a model smart city. Their city will feature interactive elements like traffic lights and streetlights that automatically turn on when it gets dark, introducing concepts in automation, sensor technology, and smart infrastructure.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration is required. Visit: https://form.jotform.com/conklin/botsiq-programs-2025-26
Who: 5th-8th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, and hands-on projects.
When: Each day is from 9:00AM – 2:00PM
June 8th-12th, 2026
Where: Westmoreland County Community College, Advanced Technology Center (1001 Technology Drive, Door 24, Mt. Pleasant, PA 15666)
Description: In this week long free summer camp, campers will become game designers, builders, and inventors as they create mini board games, build arcade-style games, and upcycle materials into new creations. They’ll sketch ideas, prototype, test with others, and refine their games like real developers.
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration is required. Visit: https://form.jotform.com/conklin/botsiq-programs-2025-26
Who: 3rd-6th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, and hands-on projects.
When: Each day is from 9:00AM – 2:00PM
June 15th-19th, 2026
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, 2nd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
Description: A construction site–themed STEM summer camp immerses students in hands-on engineering challenges inspired by real-world building and design. Campers become junior engineers as they survey the site, plan structures, test materials, operate simple machines, and solve construction problems through teamwork and creativity. Through building, testing, and improving their designs, students learn how STEM skills turn ideas into strong, safe, and functional structures.
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration is required. Visit: https://form.jotform.com/conklin/botsiq-programs-2025-26
Who: 6th-9th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, and hands-on projects.
When: Each day is from 9:00AM – 2:00PM
July 6th-10th, 2026
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, 2nd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
Description: A coding and engineering summer camp where students dive into hands-on projects using micro:bits, Arduinos, and VEX robotics. Campers learn to code, build, and test their different creations while exploring sensors, motors, and real-world problem solving.
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration is required. Visit: https://form.jotform.com/conklin/botsiq-programs-2025-26
Who: 2nd-5th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, and hands-on projects.
When: Each day is from 9:00AM – 12:00PM
July 13th-17th, 2026
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, 2nd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
Description: An Olympics-themed STEM summer camp invites students to explore science, technology, engineering, and math through exciting, hands-on challenges inspired by Olympic sports. Campers work in teams to design, test, and improve projects using real engineering and problem-solving skills. Through friendly competition and creativity, students experience how STEM concepts power athletic performance and innovation—just like in the Olympics.
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration is required. Visit: https://form.jotform.com/conklin/botsiq-programs-2025-26
Who: 5th-9th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, and hands-on projects.
When: Each day is from 9:00AM – 2:00PM
July 20th-24th, 2026
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, 2nd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
Description: Empower your creativity at a girls-only summer camp where crafting, art, and manufacturing come together in exciting hands-on projects. Campers will personalize their own creations by soldering, metal bending, and 3D printing.
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration is required. Visit: https://form.jotform.com/conklin/botsiq-programs-2025-26
Who: 5th-8th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, and hands-on projects.
When: Each day is from 9:00AM – 2:00PM
July 27th-31st, 2026
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, 2nd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
Description: Students become creators—imagining, designing, and building unique projects. Through guided exploration, they experiment with materials, tools, and techniques that mirror real-world manufacturing processes while expressing their own artistic vision. Each project encourages innovation, problem-solving, and collaboration, empowering students to think like both artists and makers as they bring their designs to life.
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration is required. Visit: https://form.jotform.com/conklin/botsiq-programs-2025-26
Who: 2nd-5th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 9:00AM – 11:30AM
Thursday, November 12th, 2026
Description: This engaging workshop introduces students to the fundamentals of electronics engineering through the creation of a personalized 2D flashlight made from balsa wood. Participants will design their project using precise measurements and create a blueprint before building their final product. Students will develop creativity, basic engineering skills, and an understanding of design planning while taking home a custom creation they made themselves.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration will open early Fall 2026.
Who: 6th-9th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 12:00PM – 2:30PM
Thursday, November 12th, 2026
Description: This hands-on workshop introduces students to the exciting world of manufacturing engineering through the design and production of a working flashlight. Using breadboards and teamwork, participants will create a blueprint, develop a manufacturing process, and build their final product from scratch. Students will gain experience in problem-solving, collaboration, and real-world engineering concepts while learning how ideas move from design to production.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration will open early Fall 2026.
Who: 2nd-5th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 9:00AM – 11:30AM
Wednesday, January 6th, 2027
Description: In this interactive workshop, students will explore the fundamentals of electrical circuits using conductive tape to create their own working designs. Participants will gain hands-on experience with circuitry concepts while learning how electricity flows through connections and components.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration will open early Winter 2026.
Who: 6th-9th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 12:00PM – 2:30PM
Wednesday, January 6th, 2027
Description: This hands-on workshop introduces middle school students to the basics of soldering and electronics assembly through the completion of a take-home kit. Participants will learn how electronic components work together while gaining experience with tools and techniques used by electronic assemblers in real-world manufacturing.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration will open early Winter 2026.
Who: 2nd-5th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 9:00AM – 11:30AM
Wednesday, January 20th, 2027
This advanced workshop introduces students to circuit-building using Makey Makey kits in a series of interactive challenges. Participants will explore how everyday objects can become inputs for digital systems while developing a strong understanding of circuits and conductivity. Through hands-on problem-solving, students will build creativity, critical thinking, and foundational electronics skills.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration will open early Winter 2026.
Who: 6th-9th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 12:00PM – 2:30PM
Wednesday, January 20th, 2027
Description: This advanced workshop challenges students to learn proper soldering techniques while working with electronic components on a PCB board. Participants will also practice soldering connections on a breadboard, gaining hands-on experience with more complex circuit assembly. Students will build confidence using industry-relevant tools and develop a deeper understanding of how electronic systems are constructed.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration will open early Winter 2026.
Who: 2nd-5th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 9:00AM – 11:30AM
Wednesday, March 3rd, 2027
This workshop introduces students to the fundamentals of game design through the creation of their own interactive online video game. Participants will design a custom character, define core gameplay mechanics, and build structured enemy systems, including movement patterns, and difficulty scaling. Students will gain experience balancing gameplay, designing interactive systems, and bringing a fully playable game concept to life.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration will open early Winter 2026.
Who: 6th-9th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 12:00PM – 2:30PM
Wednesday, March 3rd, 2027
Description: This workshop introduces students to the basics of game design by guiding them through the creation of their own online video game. Participants will design a unique character, set gameplay parameters, and build simple enemy behaviors such as movement patterns, challenges, or obstacles that interact with the player.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration will open early Winter 2026.
Who: 2nd-5th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 9:00AM – 11:30AM
Wednesday, March 17th, 2027
Description: Students will build a robotic arm using LEGO components and program it to perform a variety of tasks. They’ll explore concepts in robotics, engineering, and coding as they bring their creations to life through movement and precision control.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration will open early Winter 2026.
Who: 6th-9th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 12:00PM – 2:30PM
Wednesday, March 17th, 2027
Description: This workshop introduces students to collaborative robotics through hands-on challenges using Mecon kits to build robotic arms. Participants will learn basic coding with micro:bits to control movement, guiding their robots through a series of interactive tasks and challenges. Students will gain foundational experience in robotics, programming, and problem-solving as they bring their cobots to life.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration will open early 2027.
Who: 2nd-5th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 9:00AM – 11:30AM
Wednesday, April 7th, 2027
Description: This advanced workshop guides students through the design and fabrication of their own X’s and O’s (tic-tac-toe) game board using balsa wood. Participants will use CAD software to create precise digital designs and then bring them to life through laser cutting. Students will gain hands-on experience in digital design, fabrication techniques, and engineering precision while creating a fully finished game board to take home.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration will open early 2027.
Who: 6th-9th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 12:00PM – 2:30PM
Wednesday, April 7th, 2027
Description: This advanced workshop challenges students to design and fabricate their own X’s and O’s (tic-tac-toe) game using sheet metal and golf tees. Participants will use industry tools such as a drill press, saw, and pan brake to cut, shape, and assemble their final product with precision. Students will gain hands-on experience in metalworking, tool safety, and manufacturing processes while creating a durable, playable game to take home.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration will open early 2027.
Who: 6th-9th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
Two-Session Programs!
When: Each session is from 12:00PM – 2:30PM
Description: This workshop introduces students to robotics and engineering through the design and construction of VEX Sumo bots. Participants will assemble their robots, program them using basic coding concepts, and refine their designs for competitive Sumo-style battles against other robots. Students will develop skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and iterative design as they test, improve, and compete with their creations.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration is will open in early Spring of 2027.
Who: 2nd-5th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
Two-Session Programs!
When: Each session is from 9:00AM – 11:30AM
Description: This workshop introduces students to robotics and engineering through hands-on LEGO League challenges. Participants will build an advanced driving base and design custom attachments to complete a variety of mission-based tasks. Students will strengthen their problem-solving, teamwork, and engineering design skills as they iterate, test, and improve their robot solutions.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration is will open in early Spring of 2027.
Who: 2nd-5th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 9:00AM – 11:30AM
Wednesday, May 26th, 2027
Description: Students will build autonomous cars that can detect objects and steer away to avoid collisions using sensors and microcontrollers.Students will explore real-world applications of robotics, sensing, and autonomous navigation.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration will open Spring of 2027.
Who: 6th-9th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 12:00PM – 2:30PM
Wednesday, May 26th, 2027
Description: This advanced workshop challenges students to build and program a Shield Bot capable of performing multiple tasks through coding and engineering design. Participants will also create and attach upgrades to enhance their robot’s functionality, improving performance and adaptability. Students will develop strong skills in robotics, programming, and iterative design as they test and refine their creations.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration will open Winter of 2027.
Who: 6th-9th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 12:00PM – 2:30PM
Thursdsay, May 14, 2026
Description: Students will learn how to measure precisely using dial calipers, read and interpret blueprints, and write basic G-code for CNC machines. These foundational manufacturing skills will help them understand how digital designs are transformed into physical products
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration is required. Visit: https://form.jotform.com/conklin/botsiq-programs-2025-26
Who: 2nd-5th Grade youth with an interest in robotics, engineering, hands-on projects and making.
When: 9:00AM – 11:30AM
Thursday, May 14, 2026
Description: Students will learn how to take accurate measurements using digital calipers in both the imperial and metric systems. They will also practice reading blueprints and using coordinate systems to understand how precise measurements guide manufacturing and design processes.
Where: BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S Jackson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
For more information, contact Suzanne Gloekler ([email protected]) or Oula Abdul Ghani ([email protected]).
Registration is required. Visit: https://form.jotform.com/conklin/botsiq-programs-2025-26
Join BotsIQ for its 4th Annual Girls Exploring Tech Day. The event includes hands-on activities for girls in 4th-6th grade.
Event details:
Friday, May 1, 2026
9:30AM – 12:30PM | Lunch Provided
Westmoreland County Community College Advanced Technology Center
1001 Technology Drive, Door 24, Mt. Pleasant, PA
Tentative Schedule:
9:30AM – 10:00AM – Registration
10:00AM – Event Kickoff & Welcome
10:15AM – 11:00AM – Breakout Session #1
11:15AM – 12:00PM – Breakout Session #2
12:00PM – 12:30PM – Lunch (provided by BotsIQ)
12:30PM – Dismissal – Drive safely!
Registration is required. Visit: https://form.jotform.com/conklin/botsiq-school-registrations-2025-26.
Join BotsIQ and the Pittsburgh Chapter NTMA for an Open House to learn more about our Apprenticeship & Pre-Apprenticeship Opportunities in Advanced Manufacturing.
Tuesday, April 28th from 10:00AM – 7:00PM
BotsIQ Training & Education Center (100 S. Jackson Avenue, 2nd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15202)
The event includes:
Registration is required. Visit: https://form.jotform.com/conklin/apprenticeship-open-house to RSVP!
Friday, April 10, 2026 & Saturday, April 11, 2026
PennWest California
SAVE THE DATE! BotsIQ will be hosting its 21st annual Finals Competition for all teams!
Location: PennWest California’s Convocation Center (250 University Ave, California, PA 15419)
Day 1 – Friday, April 10, 2026
Teams Arrive – 7:30AM – 9:00AM – Team Registration, Safety Inspections
Opening Ceremony – 9:05AM
Bouts Begin – 9:45AM
Lunch – 12:30PM – 1:00PM
Day 1 Concludes – 5:00PM
Day 2 – Saturday, April 11, 2026
Teams Arrive – 7:30AM – 9:00AM – Team Registration, Safety Inspections
Opening Remarks – 8:45AM
Bouts Begin – 9:15AM
Lunch – 12:30PM – 1:00PM
Award Ceremony – 5:15PM
