LM Staff Volunteer at STEM Robotics Tournament

"I have volunteered at many STEM events locally, but never a LEGO robotics competition," Kreie said, expressing his excitement before the event. "I have a vested interest in these kids. They are the next generation of innovators and problem solvers. I wanted to help stoke their excitement for learning and exploring."

"I was so inspired by the kids that participated in the event. These kids were studying issues like global supply chain logistics and food security," Kreie said. "Those are some big issues for small children to understand. Some teams were so inspired by their learning that they are working to implement local solutions to some of these problems."

FIRST LEGO League hosts tournaments and festivals nationwide every year to allow teams to gain crucial feedback on their robots, code, and various innovation projects from judges. The real challenge then begins at the Robot Game table, where students race their creations to try to attain the best score for a chance to advance to the championship.

"The tournament was a grand success! The best part was seeing all the kids compete, persevere through challenges, celebrate victories, and share in all the fun," Horner said.

"These kids will make a brighter and better future for the local community and the world," Kreie said. "The future is in very good hands."

Qualifying teams from the tournament will compete in the state tournament. The winners will then advance to the championship in April 2022.