Rockville Robotics, Inc

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About

Rockville Robotics, Inc, is a registered 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization based in Rockville, Maryland.

Mission

Our mission is to foster a love of STEM among school-aged kids in Maryland, by encouraging and facilitating participation in FIRST© Robotics programs.

History

The seed for Rockville Robotics was planted in 2012, when Dr. Pankaj Oberoi registered an FLL (First Lego League) team and introduced robotics to children in his local community. He has since coached 4 FLL teams and 1 FTC (First Tech Challenge) team, taking them to the FIRST World Championship and European Open Championship multiple times. He has instilled in his team members a drive to spread enthusiasm for STEM and robotics to other children. Consequently, in 2016-17, his team started 7 FLL Jr. teams, 4 FLL teams and provided training for over 50 FLL and FLL Jr. teams in Virginia and Maryland. In 2023, there are 8 active FTC teams carrying on Dr. Oberoi's initial vision. 

Recognizing the importance of community based STEM and robotics programs, Rockville Robotics was incorporated with a vision of forming a network of FIRST teams that inspire each other by sharing ideas, insights and resources. In addition to coaching FIRST teams, Pankaj continues to provide strategic and tactical guidance to Rockville Robotics in his capacity as Program Development Manager.

The initial board of directors includes individuals who have demonstrated commitment to youth development by coaching and mentoring FIRST robotics teams. They bring extensive industry experience in STEM education, engineering, software, community outreach, and finance.