Free CANDO Tampa robotics camp sparks interest in STEM careers for un­der­served youth - Spectrum Bay News 9

TAMPA — Dozens of Tampa area students spent part of their summer building robots, learning to code and exploring artificial intelligence through a free STEM camp designed to remove financial barriers to technology education.

The Caribbean American National Development Organization (CANDO) hosted the robotics camp for students ages 9 to 12, providing hands-on instruction at no cost to families. The program is led by high school robotics students who serve as instructors and mentors for younger campers.

For 11-year-old Samson, the camp is already shaping his future goals.

"When I go to the NFL and when I retire, I want to make my own car brand so I can use what I've learned from robotics to make cars and electric cars," he said.

Camp instructor Kristopher Gajadharsingh said he hopes the experience inspires students to pursue careers in engineering, technology, and entrepreneurship.

"I'd just like to see one of the kids that I taught saying that, 'I went to this summer camp when I was nine or 10 years old, and it really gave me an idea to be an engineer and a CEO for a business,'" he said.

The camp emphasizes more than just technical skills. Students work together to solve problems, compete in robotics challenges, and build confidence through teamwork.

Third-grader Sarai said she enjoys learning how to assemble robots.

"They give you instructions to build it," she said.

Gajadharsingh said he understands the effect of early exposure because a high school robotics program changed the direction of his own life.

"The biggest word for that is opportunity," he said. "When I first came into high school, I really had no idea what I wanted to do. I joined my robotics team, and all of a sudden I was flourishing. I went to international competitions, and that really helped me get into college."

The need for programs like this continues to grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM employment is projected to increase 8.1% between 2024 and 2034, with computer and information technology occupations expected to account for about 317,700 job openings each year.

Gajadharsingh said artificial intelligence is fueling students' curiosity about how technology works and creating new opportunities for future careers.

For Samson, the lessons extend beyond robotics.

"What I'm most grateful for is being able to come here and having good people to work with — people with good sportsmanship and a good attitude," he said.

He said that the camp has also taught him an important lesson about perseverance.

"We have chances to compete and learn from our mistakes," Samson said. "You don't fail. You just find one way that doesn't work."

Following strong participation this summer, CANDO plans to launch a year-round STEM program during the upcoming school year.