Our Programs
Comprehensive STEM education from elementary through high school and beyond
FRC Team 10989: Blast Robotics
Building industry-grade robots and developing real-world engineering skills through the FIRST Robotics Competition.
Founded in 2021, FRC Team 10989 "Blast Robotics" is a high school robotics team based in Maryland. Our mission is to inspire students to pursue careers in STEM fields by providing hands-on experience in engineering, programming, and teamwork through participation in the FIRST Robotics Competition.
Our Mission & Vision
Blast Robotics aims to build industry-grade robots while developing real-world engineering skills. We strive to create a collaborative environment where students can learn, grow, and compete at the highest levels of robotics competition.
What Students Learn
- Mechanical design using CAD software (SolidWorks, Fusion 360)
- Fabrication with CNC machines, laser cutters, and 3D printers
- Electronics and control systems
- Programming (Java, Python) and autonomous robotics
- Project management and team leadership
- Strategy development and competitive analysis
Competition Season
The FRC season runs from January to April, featuring a 6-week build season followed by regional competitions. Our team competes in district events with the goal of advancing to championships.
Team Structure
Our team consists of dedicated high school students, supported by experienced mentors and sponsors. We operate as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, ensuring all activities are educational and community-focused.
🏆 Recent Achievements
Gardener Award - RampRiot 2025
Recognizing our commitment to cultivating STEAM activities and inspiring others through mentorship.
Additional Awards: Innovation in Control, Gracious Professionalism, and multiple competition qualifications.
STEM2ignite Global Outreach
Delivering hands-on STEM education to underserved communities worldwide, with a special focus on empowering girl students and minority populations.
Program Overview
STEM2ignite is our flagship global outreach initiative that brings interactive STEM workshops, live demonstrations, and mentoring sessions to students with limited access to quality science and technology education. Led by student volunteers and mentors, we spark curiosity, build confidence, and inspire the next generation of innovators.
Target Audience
We primarily serve middle and high school students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, with emphasis on:
- Girl students in underserved communities
- Minority populations with limited STEM access
- First-generation learners
- Students from semi-literate family backgrounds
Impact to Date
Recent workshops in Hyderabad and Warangal, India reached over 250 girl students from low-income and minority communities. Our vision includes building a "STEM Lab on Wheels" to scale our impact and reach thousands more students globally.
Robotics Pipeline
A vertically integrated pathway from elementary through high school
FIRST LEGO League (FLL)
Elementary & Middle School
Students ages 9-14 work with LEGO robotics to explore real-world challenges. They design, build, and program autonomous robots while developing core STEM skills and teamwork.
Coming SoonFIRST Tech Challenge (FTC)
Middle & High School
Students design, build, and program robots using Android-based control systems. FTC introduces more complex engineering concepts and prepares students for FRC.
Coming SoonFIRST Robotics Competition (FRC)
High School
Our flagship program (Team 10989) where students build 120-pound robots using industrial-grade tools, professional CAD software, and advanced programming.
Active NowOur goal is to establish at least five new teams across the FLL-FTC-FRC pipeline by 2026, creating a comprehensive pathway for long-term student engagement.
STEM & Robotics Summer Camp
Intensive hands-on learning experiences for students grades 4-9, introducing robotics fundamentals and engineering principles.
Program Details
Our summer camp was the foundation that launched Keystone STEM Alliance. In 2025, student leaders Vivaan and Virat Ponugoti organized a robotics camp that enrolled 13 students and raised $2,500 in seed funding.
What Students Experience
- Hands-on VEX robotics training
- Small group instruction (low student-to-mentor ratio)
- Project-based learning approach
- Engineering design process introduction
- Team collaboration and problem-solving
- Final project presentations
Camp Schedule
Camps typically run in July and August with 1-2 week sessions. We maintain small class sizes to ensure personalized attention and maximize learning outcomes.
Interested in Summer Camp?
Registration for summer 2026 will open in spring. Contact us to learn more!
Get in TouchVenturing Crew 9189
A STEM-focused scouting unit cultivating youth leadership through hands-on robotics, engineering, and community engagement.
About Venturing Crew 9189
Blast Robotics has officially launched Venturing Crew 9189, created in partnership with Keystone STEM Alliance and Chester County Council, Scouting America. This unique program combines the leadership development of scouting with the technical skills of robotics.
Program Focus
- Youth-led leadership and decision making
- STEM project development and execution
- Community service through STEM outreach
- Outdoor adventures and team building
- Career exploration in engineering fields
- Personal growth and character development
Partnership
Through our partnership with Chester County Council, Scouting America, we integrate the values of scouting—leadership, service, and character—with hands-on STEM education, creating well-rounded young leaders prepared for tomorrow's challenges.
Partnerships & Collaborations
Educational Partnerships
We seek partnerships with leading universities to engage faculty, graduate students, and undergraduates as mentors. These collaborations explore dual enrollment opportunities and internships.
Community Partners
- EADEH Enterprises - Real estate company providing workspace support
- Isolite Corporation - Lighting solutions and STEM funding
- Westtown School - FRC mentor relationship and equipment access
- Chester County Community Foundation - Community support
- FIRST Mid-Atlantic Robotics - Regional robotics guidance
Join Our Programs
Whether you're a student ready to learn, a mentor eager to share, or an organization looking to make an impact, we have a place for you.