By Charissa Bates 
These robotics kids are going to shape our future. I think this every time I watch an elementary, middle school, or high school competition.
My thoughts go back many years to when my middle child, who was six at the time, went with my husband to the high school robotics shop. They were only stopping in briefly to pick up some engineering kits, but my child quickly became captivated by what the “big kids” were doing.
He stood quietly watching until one student walked over and asked if he would like to see what they were working on. My son, wearing an oversized pair of safety goggles, stepped up to a large metal cutting machine. The student explained what they were working on, demonstrated how the tool worked, and cut a piece of metal. Naturally, my curious 6-year-old asked if he could take the freshly-cut piece home.
He was fascinated by the machines and the work happening around him. What impressed me most, though, was what happened next. They did not just hand him the metal. One of the students grabbed sandpaper and carefully smoothed the sharp edges first. It sounds like such a simple gesture, but I found it so thoughtful. At the time, I remember thinking what high school student notices the sharp edges on a piece of scrap metal and takes the time to sand it for a kindergartener?
There is never enough time in robotics to perfect a robot before competition, which made this small moment stand out even more. No adult was directing these high school students to show patience or kindness to a kindergartener, yet that is exactly what they did. In that moment, they were nurturing something bigger: curiosity about engineering, machines, and science. They were also modeling what leadership and mentorship look like.
Seven years and countless elementary and middle school competitions later, my oldest son is one of those high school students now. I get a front-row seat to see how this program is shaping him.
I assumed he would have very little hands-on involvement as a freshman. I was wrong. From the first day, veteran team members emphasized learning and helping the entire group succeed. Seniors and freshmen alike were expected to grow. Upperclassmen actively guided newer members through every area, including CAD (Computer-aided Design), programming, business operations, design, and more.
As a parent, it has been incredible to watch. My freshman has learned CAD design to the point that he is now considering a degree focused on it. Each day, he practices collaboration, respect, and teamwork. Older students encourage deeper thinking and push one another to keep improving.
After about seven years around robotics programs, I have seen just how valuable they are. These teams show students that academics, engineering, and mathematics can be just as exciting as any other activity. They create a place for kids who enjoy solving problems, thinking critically, and working together.
From designing to coding to fundraising, this program has helped my son grow in ways I never expected. I feel grateful to have a high schooler on the robotics team.
And I hope that someday a wide-eyed kindergartener wanders into the shop and my son says, “Hey, come over here and see what I built.”
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