Our After-School Robotics Program is a hands-on, project-based experience designed to give high school students the skills and confidence to explore robotics, engineering, and coding. Offered in collaboration between the USF Office of Youth Experiences and the College of Engineering, the program is led by Electrical Engineering Professor Dr. Alexandro Castellanos.
Over five weeks, students will build and program robots, explore real-world applications of robotics, and work with professional tools that reflect today’s engineering and technical fields. Two levels of instruction—Intermediate and Advanced—ensure that students can continue to grow their skills and tackle new challenges.
After-School Robotics Program Details
Program Director: Dr. Alexandro Castellanos
Location: USF Tampa - College of Engineering
Days: TBD
Times: 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Dates: Spring 2026
Cost: TBD
Program Structure
Below you’ll find an overview of the topics students will explore in our After-School Robotics Program, along with details on the two levels offered—Intermediate and Advanced. When registering, families can select the level that best matches their child’s current skills and comfort, ensuring an engaging and appropriately challenging experience.
Robotics & Mechanical Design
Design and build robots while learning how gears, levers, and mechanical systems power real-world machines.
Electronics
Explore sensors, motors, and circuits to bring robots to life and understand how electrical systems drive automation.
Programming
Learn coding fundamentals like variables, loops, and logic to control robots and solve hands-on engineering challenges.
Digital Fabrication
Use 3D design tools and 3D printing to create custom parts, turning ideas into functional components for your robots.
Turn curiosity into innovation in our After-School Robotics Program. Students learn the science and theory behind robotics, then apply it through hands-on building, coding, and testing. They’ll grow essential skills in problem-solving, collaboration, creativity, and communication, skills that last far beyond the classroom.
| Category | Intermediate | Advanced |
|---|---|---|
| Robotics & Mechanical Design | Build guided projects using robotics kits; follow structured challenges | Design and build custom robots; integrate multiple systems such as navigation and vision |
| Electronics | Learn basic circuits, sensors, and actuators | Use advanced components (motor drivers, H-bridges, custom circuits) |
| Programming | Arduino programming using C++ | Python programming and advanced integration |
| Digital Fabrication | Introduction to microcontrollers and 3D printing | Advanced use of Raspberry Pi, embedded systems, and complex fabrication |
Useful Information
Program Overview
What is the After-School Robotics Program?
Our program is a hands-on, project-based experience designed to give high school students the skills and confidence to explore robotics, engineering, and coding. Over five weeks, students will build and program robots, explore real-world applications, and work with professional tools used in today’s engineering and technical fields.
When does the program take place?
The USF After-School Robotics Program will take place in the Spring of 2026.
Where is it held?
Sessions are held in an Engineering classroom and the USF Robotics Lab. Students spend about one hour per session in the lab.
How many students can participate?
Each section (Intermediate and Advanced) is limited to 15 students to ensure individualized attention.
What grade levels of students can participate?
The After-School Robotics Program is open to high school students in grades 9–12.
Curriculum & Learning Objectives
What will my child learn?
Students will explore four key areas in robotics and STEM:
- Robotics & Mechanical Design: Build robots and understand how mechanical systems work.
- Electronics: Work with sensors, motors, and basic circuits to make robots come alive.
- Programming: Learn coding concepts such as variables, loops, and logic to control robots and solve challenges.
- Digital Fabrication: Use 3D design software and 3D printing to create custom robot parts.
How are sessions structured?
Each session combines:
- Concepts & Theory: Students learn the “why” behind robotics.
- Hands-On Practice: Students apply learning by building, coding, and testing robots.
What are the prerequisites?
- Intermediate: No prior experience required—perfect for beginners.
- Advanced: Recommended for students with prior experience (Arduino, robotics clubs, or robotics camps).
How do I choose the right level for my child?
When registering, parents select the level that matches their child’s current skills and comfort. This ensures students are challenged appropriately while staying engaged and confident.
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