AI and Robotics

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics Program Overview

Dates: June 23 - 27, 2025
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Virginia Tech Academic Building One in Alexandria
Registration Fee: $800
No of Students: 30
Grade Range: 6 to 8

Mandatory Student and Parent Virtual Orientation: June 17, 2025, 6:30 pm

Program fees cover meals, materials, staff, travel, t-shirts, lanyards, and programming costs. Program fees are non-refundable and transferable for up to 12 months of the program date.

Program Overview:

The AI and Robotics Program is a dynamic, 40-hour educational experience hosted at Virginia Tech. Designed for middle school students, this program immerses young learners in the world of robotics and artificial intelligence, with a focus on developing a VEX IQ robot that simulates a NASA Mars Rover Mission. Students will gain foundational skills in engineering and programming, including simulation programming of a rover, while exploring various STEM career paths.

What to Expect:

Participants will engage in a comprehensive learning journey, beginning with foundational engineering and programming principles and progressing to more advanced topics such as sensor integration and autonomous navigation. Students will tackle daily challenges that mirror real-world problems faced by astronauts and engineers, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The experience culminates in a final project presentation, where students showcase their innovations and reflect on their learning journey.

Core Activities:

• Design and Program a VEX IQ Robot: Students will build and program a robot to simulate a Mars rover mission, fostering problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Implement Simulation Programming: Participants will learn how to write simulation programs that enable their rover to mimic real-world Mars exploration tasks.
• Explore STEM Careers: Participants will engage with professionals in fields such as robotics, AI, and space exploration, broadening their understanding of potential career opportunities.
• Develop Presentation Skills: Throughout the program, students will prepare and deliver a project presentation, enhancing their communication abilities.

Skills Gained

Through participation in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics Program, students will acquire the following skills:

1. Foundational Engineering and Programming:
   • Gain hands-on experience with designing and programming a robot, simulating a real-world engineering project.
2. Robotic Components and Functionality:
   • Understand the basic components and functions of robots, enhancing their technical aptitude.
3. Coding and Simulation:
   • Develop skills in block and text coding, including simulation programming to mimic Mars rover tasks.
4. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking:
   • Apply problem-solving techniques and critical thinking to overcome challenges and optimize robot performance.
5. Teamwork and Collaboration:
   • Enhance abilities to work effectively in teams, fostering communication and collaboration skills.
6. Presentation and Communication:
   • Build confidence and competence in preparing and delivering presentations, a vital skill for future academic and professional endeavors.

This program is designed to inspire and equip students with the skills and knowledge to pursue their interests in STEM, fostering a lifelong curiosity and passion for exploration and innovation. By the end of the program, participants will have gained valuable experience in robotics and AI, and will be equipped with the confidence and inspiration to pursue future educational and career opportunities in the STEM field.