A local robotics team from South Lake Tahoe is reaching out for community support to enhance STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) opportunities for students. The GigaBite Robotics, known as FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Team 20681, comprises 11 middle and high school students dedicated to fostering interest in STEM within their community.
This year, the team has already made significant strides, mentoring a rookie team in the FIRST Lego League (FLL) that earned the prestigious Rising Stars Award and successfully competed at the Northern Nevada Championship. In addition to their mentorship, GigaBite Robotics has organized STEM camps and workshops, along with community events aimed at introducing robotics, engineering, and coding to local youth.
Expanding STEM Horizons
Entering their fifth year in the FIRST Tech Challenge, the team is committed to using robotics as a platform to teach essential skills such as engineering, teamwork, and problem-solving. The current season’s challenge, titled Decode, has pushed the team to implement data-driven design, develop custom CAD-built mechanisms, and achieve seamless integration between software and hardware.
The impact of GigaBite Robotics extends well beyond competitions. The team actively mentors younger teams, supports FTC teams both in Nevada and internationally, and volunteers at various FTC and FLL competitions. Their commitment to education is further exemplified by partnerships with local schools and Lake Tahoe Community College to host events like STEM Discovery Night. Over the past three summers, they have successfully engaged more than 500 students through hands-on STEM camps and outreach programs.
Call for Community Support
To sustain their initiatives, GigaBite Robotics is seeking donations that will directly support essential needs such as robot parts, 3D printing filament, registration and competition fees, tools, travel expenses, and outreach programs. The team emphasizes that financial barriers should not prevent students from exploring STEM opportunities.
Donations can be made through the following link: GigaBite Robotics Donation Page. The team is fiscally sponsored by Hack Club, a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Their registered EIN is 81-2908499.
The support from the community plays a vital role in inspiring curiosity, building confidence, and creating a robust STEM future for South Lake Tahoe. GigaBite Robotics expresses gratitude for any contributions that invest in local students and innovation.
