Robots whirred, teams strategized and students and spectators alike learned valuable lessons in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) during a weekend at Brock University dedicated to competition, collaboration and community impact.
Thirty-six high school robotics teams from across Ontario competed on Feb. 21 and 22 at the 2026 FIRSTTech Challenge Provincial Championship hosted by Brock’s Faculty of Mathematics and Science and sponsored by Ontario Power Generation.
“Hosting the championship for the second consecutive year reflects Brock’s strong commitment to growing STEM education in Niagara and beyond,” said Associate Professor of Engineering Shengrong Bu, who sits on the event’s organizing committee and previously served as its 2025 General Chair.
The University, she said, was proud to again host the event, welcoming students interested in STEM — as well as visitors from across Ontario — to not only compete but also learn about the academic pathways available to them at Brock.
Brock University President and Vice-Chancellor Lesley Rigg welcomed 36 high school robotics teams from across Ontario to the FIRST Tech Challenge Provincial Championship on Feb. 21 and 22.
Paired with the competition itself was an “Academic Alley” that featured representatives from multiple Brock Faculties who shared insight into the University’s STEM programming, such as its expanding Bachelor of Engineering in Integrated Engineering. The weekend also included educational sessions for teachers interested in expanding robotics, coding and artificial intelligence (AI) programming in their schools.
“Bringing the FIRST Tech Challenge Provincial Championship to Brock connects young innovators with our faculty, students and facilities,” said Faculty of Mathematics and Science Dean Peter Berg. “It strengthens the pathways from high school curiosity to university-level discovery and, ultimately, to careers that shape the future of our region and country.”
Early exposure to robotics and AI helps students “build technical ability, confidence and curiosity,” Bu said, adding the skills are beneficial no matter what professional path a student decides to take.
While the student-built robots took centre stage throughout the weekend, the competition also focused on broader skills development.
“Robotics has a spot for everyone. Regardless of whether their skills are technical, artistic or business focused, students are able to find a role, and a home, on a robotics team,” said Chair and Professor of Chemistry Paul Zelisko, who was the event’s Director of Robotics Initiatives. “The program isn’t just about robots but truly uses robots to build students’ skills.”
That concept was not lost on Sudbury student and Lo-Ellen EDIT Orange team member Caleb R., who said he felt as though he became part of a community when he joined the robotics circuit two years ago.
“In addition to the technical skills you’re learning, it’s the soft skills and teamwork skills which are amazing,” he said.
Toronto student Dilaany S., a member of team Bearbella, described her experience with the FIRST competitions as “mind blowing.”
“When I first started on the team, it felt very intimidating,” she said. “But by joining Bearbella, my all-girl team, it felt very empowering to be a part of FIRST and STEM.”
Her teammate, Sally S., said the competition inspired their group to showcase the power of women in STEM.
“We purposely chose an all-girl team because we wanted to show girls can compete in male- dominated fields,” she said. “If you’re a girl, don’t be scared to try. Take that risk. Take that first step.”
“These 36 teams brought their best to Brock, which is exactly what FIRST is about: young people learning by doing, supporting each other and pushing what’s possible in order to excel,” said Dave Ellis, President, FIRSTRobotics Canada. “This kind of experience helps students picture themselves in engineering, tech, skilled trades and the careers Niagara, and Ontario at large, needs to keep growing.”
The provincial victory earned the six the winning teams a chance to compete at the FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship, where they will join international competitors in Houston, Texas.
A full list of award winners is available on the FIRST Inspires website.
“The impact of the championship event will echo into the future,” Bu said.
“Through events like this, we are helping to build the future pipeline of engineers and innovators, supporting the growing robotics and manufacturing sectors in Niagara and across Canada and the globe,” she said.
To further support these efforts, Brock will also host the Canada Cup of Robotics—Niagara 2026, an international championship expected to draw thousands of competitors, mentors and spectators from around the world to campus in June.
Originally written by: Thuy Dam
Source: The Brock News
Published on: 23 February 2026
Link to original article: Brock hosts Ontario’s top young roboticists, growing Niagara’s STEM pipeline
