STEM Program · Team 16158

Building Robots. Building Character.

Founded in 2025, BCS Robotics is a student-driven robotics program where members learn engineering, coding, and teamwork through the VEX IQ Challenge. We bring together students who are curious about how things work to design, build, and program robots — while developing real-world skills in problem-solving and leadership.

Learn More about Program

BCS Robotics students with their VEX IQ competition robot

BCS Robotics Team 16158A students showing their competition robot

BCS Robotics Team 16158A with their Judges Award

BCS Robotics Team 16158B with their state championship award

BCS Robotics Team 16158B competing in a VEX IQ match

BCS Robotics students competing at the Maryland State Championship

Team Spirit — Ready to Compete

Team 16158A with Their Competition Robot

16158A — Judges Award Winners

16158B — Tournament Championship

16158B in Action at State Championship Tournament

16158M Competing at the Maryland State Championship

Our Mission

S.P.A.R.K.

To inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators by building real Skills through hands-on robotics, growing Persistence through problem-solving, learning to Achieve together as a team, practicing Respect for one another, and gaining Knowledge that lasts a lifetime.

Skills through hands-on practice

Persistence in problem-solving

Achieve together

Respect for teammates

Knowledge for life

What We Do

Hands-On, Every Week

Design and build robots for VEX IQ competitions
Learn programming and engineering design principles
Compete in regional and state-level tournaments
Mentor new members and build leadership skills
Engage in community outreach and STEM promotion

What Students Learn

Our Curriculum

A progressive 20-week curriculum guiding students from foundational robotics concepts through real VEX IQ tournament competition — building engineering skills, teamwork, and resilience along the way.

Module 01

Introduction to Robotics

Weeks 1–2

Basic robotics concepts & VEX IQ kit overview
Building and controlling simple robots
Introduction to teamwork & design thinking

Module 02

Engineering & Programming Foundations

Weeks 3–5

Simple machine principles: gears, wheels, levers, sensors
Programming basics using VEXcode IQ
Trial-and-error design & iteration

Module 03

Applied Robotics Challenges

Weeks 6–8

Building robots to complete specific tasks
Problem-solving in collaborative groups
Introduction to competition-style challenges

Module 04

Showcase & Competition Prep

Weeks 9–20

Team projects solving complex challenges
Showcase event for parents & school community
Participation in 2026–27 VEX IQ Tournaments in Maryland

Who Can Join

No Experience Necessary

No experience necessary! Whether you're new to robotics or already have some background in engineering or coding, there's a place for you on our team.