Across the world, robotics has inspired K-12 students to explore their strengths and interests as they prepare for higher education. Florida State University is helping to encourage these students to pursue an education in a field they love by offering essential resources and guidance as they engage in robotics and STEM activities.
FSU faculty and staff are playing a crucial role in this community outreach effort by providing coaching support and creating opportunities for students from various educational backgrounds, including those attending public schools and those educated at home.
“At FSU and across the higher education landscape in Tallahassee, faculty and staff actively engage in preparing students even beyond the classroom; it’s about igniting a passion for careers and the postsecondary pathways to those careers in younger generations while unlocking their boundless potential to shape the future.”
— Jarrett Terry, assistant provost and assistant vice president for Academic Affairs
“At FSU and across the higher education landscape in Tallahassee, faculty and staff actively engage in preparing students even beyond the classroom; it’s about igniting a passion for careers and the postsecondary pathways to those careers in younger generations while unlocking their boundless potential to shape the future,” said Jarrett Terry, assistant provost and assistant vice president for Academic Affairs. “By being active in our communities, and leveraging both individual talents and education networks, we are able to help community-based organizations immerse young minds in STEM education now and lay the foundation for a brighter, more innovative tomorrow.”
Tallahassee recently hosted the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Tallahassee Regional Robotics Competition at the Florida A&M University Alfred Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center. The event is hosted and sponsored by the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, the joint college for Florida A&M and Florida State universities. This regional competition was the first in the world to be held on a historically Black college and university (HBCU) campus, featuring multiple participants from across the country and highlighting the community’s dedication to robotics.
Laura Leonard, FSU alumna and executive director of TallyRobotics, a local non-profit organization that provides and promotes STEAM education for K-12 students in the Tallahassee area, emphasized the importance of community-supported programs in helping students discover their interests within society.
“There’s a place for every kind of kid, whether they’re an artist, into marketing or web design,” Leonard said. “They don’t have to be a technician to get really good jobs. We want them to pursue hard things because it helps them solve problems. We’re laying the groundwork for future problem solvers.”
TallyRobotics FIRST students gather with their teams at the Collins Building in Innovation Park near the joint college, which also hosts smaller FIRST competitions and the TallyRobotics Summer Camp. This area is a hub of scientific research and development, home to several advanced research centers, including the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory.
“Investing time and resources into youth activities like FIRST Robotics is a win for the joint college,” said Suvranu De, dean of the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. “Some of our most talented students and faculty found their passion in the robotics field. We know the next generation of engineering faculty and students are among these teams right now.”
Through these outreach programs and partnerships, K-12 students are introduced to advanced engineering concepts and able to experience the university environment. These students gain practical experience and exposure to research by working on and refining their robotics projects.
Robert Fuselier, senior director of the Office of Digital Learning & Academic Technology at Information Technology Services, shared his insights and experiences gained from coaching the Gorillabots, a local FIRST LEGO league team.
“FSU provides a unique opportunity for support, with experts from the university guiding students with their knowledge and experience in their fields,” Fuselier said. “It’s wonderful to have a pool of talented faculty and instructors who take the time to engage with students, offering guidance and sharing their knowledge. This collaboration between the university and the community creates a supportive environment for learning and growth.”
This early involvement not only sparks student interest in engineering but also provides them with valuable skills and knowledge that can benefit their future academic and career pursuits. By participating in these programs, K-12 students can better plan a clear pathway to higher education and professional success in various fields and studies.
“Going into this program, I expected to learn a lot about robotics,” said Eve Baucam, a local high school student in the Capital City Chaotic Coders program. “However, I also discovered that a key aspect of leadership is passing on knowledge and teaching others.”
The success of local teams at state competitions, now advancing to the world championships, highlights the effectiveness of the programs in nurturing talent and interest in STEM fields. The achievements of these teams demonstrate the commitment to supporting young minds.
William Hiers, an electrical engineering major at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering and mentor of a local robotics team, shared how his involvement in robotics has benefited his experience as an FSU student.
“This program equips participants with invaluable practical skills that are difficult to find elsewhere,” Hiers said. “Unlike internships, which often progress at a slower pace, this robotics team delivers an unmatched hands-on experience. As an alumnus of the program and a current mentor, I have gained numerous lessons that have greatly benefited my time as an FSU student.”