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Hands-On Training Brings FIRST Robotics to More Schools in Eastern North Carolina
March 28, 2025March 28, 2025

Hands-On Training Brings FIRST Robotics to More Schools in Eastern North Carolina

Press Release, stemeastNCEast Alliance

Eastern North Carolina – On Saturday March 22 and Sunday March 23, educators from across eastern North Carolina gathered at D.H. Conley High School in Greenville for a day of hands-on learning, inspiration, and innovation during the STEM East FIRST Robotics Investigation and Awareness Workshop. This immersive professional development event, hosted by STEM East, is a major step forward in expanding access to FIRST Robotics programming throughout the region.

Led by Julia Wagner, Director of Education & Programs for FIRST North Carolina, and Dr. Bill McClung, Professor at East Carolina University’s College of Engineering and Technology and long-time FIRST coach, the workshop provided aspiring coaches with practical training to help launch robotics teams in their own schools. Educators from 13 different schools across the STEM East network participated in this inaugural event, representing a broad commitment to expanding STEM opportunities for students in rural and underserved communities.

“STEM education is crucial to preparing students for the future workforce, and robotics programs like FIRST provide an incredible opportunity for hands-on learning,” said Dr. Patrick Miller, Director of District Engagement & Support for STEM East. “By equipping educators with the tools to lead these teams, we are opening doors for more students to participate in robotics competitions, develop critical problem-solving skills, and explore careers in engineering and technology.”

This workshop is part of STEM East’s broader initiative to grow FIRST Robotics programs in high schools throughout the 29-county NC East Alliance region. The event featured robot demonstrations, guidance on team organization and fundraising, and connections with current coaches and mentors. Attendees also received invitations to attend a live FIRST Robotics competition the following day, providing them with firsthand insight into the energy and teamwork that define these events.

NC East Alliance and STEM East are proud to support this effort with funding assistance and continued professional development, ensuring educators have the resources they need to spark interest in robotics and engineering in their classrooms. With overwhelming interest in this initial session, plans are already underway for future workshops and expanded support.

For more information on upcoming FIRST Robotics events, team startup support, or how to bring STEM East initiatives to your school, contact Dr. Patrick C. Miller (pmiller@nceast.org).