KALISPELL, Mont. — An all-girls robotics team from Kalispell, Montana, is heading to the world stage after qualifying for the 2026 FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship in Houston, Texas. The RoboScout Squad, comprised of students in grades 7-12, earned their advancement on February 6th, but realizing this dream requires a significant fundraising effort. The team is currently working to raise $27,000 to cover travel and competition expenses for the team and their 30-pound robot, affectionately named Bandit.
The FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship brings together over 300 teams from around the globe, offering a platform for young innovators to learn, compete and showcase their robotic creations. For the RoboScout Squad, this isn’t their first experience with high-level competition. Coach and mentor Dennis Dortch shared that he attended the world championships last year and is “so excited to go back and do it again.” The team’s excitement is palpable, as expressed by team member Coco Vick: “I was in shock. It took a even as to realize, we’re going to worlds!”
Building Bandit and a Future in STEM
Months of dedication and hard work went into building Bandit, the robot that propelled the RoboScout Squad to the world championship. Team member Aubrey Hardwick described the process as “a whole lot of fun, just working on everything, figuring out how to get different things to work.” The team’s success isn’t solely about engineering prowess; it’s a testament to the skills they’ve cultivated through participation in robotics. According to the RoboScout Squad’s website, the program fosters skills in engineering, teamwork, programming, strategy, construction, public speaking, innovation, research, and critical thinking.
The RoboScout Squad began as a FIRST LEGO League team before transitioning to the more advanced FIRST Tech Challenge. The team’s mission extends beyond competition, with a focus on community outreach, education, and promoting STEM opportunities for girls in the Flathead Valley. They actively seek to grow both their team and the presence of FIRST Robotics within the region.
Community Support Fuels the Dream
Recognizing the financial hurdle to attending the world championship, the RoboScout Squad immediately launched a community fundraising campaign. As of today, they have raised approximately $4,500, according to coach Krista Nunnally. “We could not do this without a great deal of support from our family, our friends, community business leaders and people who genuinely see the value in what we’re doing here and what these kids are learning. We are very very appreciative,” Nunnally said.
The estimated cost of the trip to Houston ranges from $27,000 to $28,000, covering transportation, lodging, and competition fees. The team is accepting donations through their GoFundMe account, as well as through checks and business sponsorships. Vick expressed the team’s desire to represent their community on a national stage, stating, “It would definitely be such an honor and I would love to be able represent to Flathead and Montana as a whole at the world championship.”
More Than Just Robotics: A Holistic Approach
The RoboScout Squad isn’t just about building robots; it’s about building well-rounded individuals. The team’s website highlights that its members are also involved in Girl Scouts, maintain honor roll status, participate in student athletics, and pursue musical endeavors. This holistic approach underscores the team’s commitment to fostering not only technical skills but also character development, including solid sportsmanship, inclusivity, and grit.
The team also welcomes volunteers with a variety of skill sets, from technical expertise to business and marketing support. They are also looking for individuals interested in starting or coaching a FIRST LEGO League team for younger students in grades 4-8. This commitment to mentorship and expanding access to STEM education demonstrates the RoboScout Squad’s dedication to the broader robotics community.
The RoboScout Squad’s journey to the FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship is a testament to the power of dedication, teamwork, and community support. As they prepare for Houston, they carry the hopes of the Flathead Valley and the ambition to inspire the next generation of female leaders in STEM. The team’s next major milestone is reaching their fundraising goal by mid-April to finalize travel arrangements and ensure all team members can participate in the competition.
What do you think about the RoboScout Squad’s achievement? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and consider supporting their fundraising efforts to help them reach the world championship!
