Introduce your high schooler to the fascinating world of robotics at USF High School Robotics, hosted by the USF College of Engineering! This immersive program empowers students to design, build, and program their own Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) using cutting-edge tools like Raspberry Pi, 3D printing, and state-of-the-art software. From understanding sensors and actuators to assembling custom-designed robots, participants will gain hands-on experience and invaluable technical skills.
The learning doesn鈥檛 stop at camp. Your child will explore real-life industrial robotics, programming advanced systems in USF鈥檚 state-of-the-art labs, and leave with their very own robot, completed projects, and programming files to continue their journey at home. This camp combines creativity, critical thinking, and technical expertise, providing an unforgettable week of innovation, collaboration, and fun. Don鈥檛 miss this opportunity to inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators!
High School Robotics Details
Camp Director: Dr. Alexandro Castellanos
Location: USF Tampa - DFX Lab
Grade Levels: Entering 9th - 12th
Time: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Cost: $999.99
| Dates | Campus | Is this eligible for Rocky's Residents? |
|---|---|---|
| June 22nd - 26th, 2026 | USF Tampa | Yes |
| July 20th - 24th, 2026 | USF Tampa | Yes |
What to Expect
Introduction to Robotics and Raspberry Pi
Dive into the fundamentals of robotics with a focus on the Raspberry Pi platform. Learn the basics of robotics theory, electrical circuit design, and programming using Python. This section builds a strong foundation for creating and programming autonomous mobile robots (AMRs).
Designing and Building with 3D Printing
Master 3D printing fundamentals to design and construct a Raspberry Pi-powered AMR using a provided kit. Assemble components, including sensors and actuators, to create a fully functional robot, while learning critical engineering and design principles.
Programming and Environmental Interaction
Use Linux and Raspberry Pi libraries to program your robot for real-world challenges. Incorporate sensors and actuators to enable the robot to sense and respond to its environment, successfully navigating and competing in various tasks and scenarios.
Industrial Robotics and ABB RobotStudio
Explore industrial robotics with ABB RobotStudio software. Gain hands-on experience interacting with real industrial robots in USF labs, applying fundamental programming and control techniques to understand robotics in professional settings.
Unlock your high schooler's potential at the USF College of Engineering's High School Robotics Program! This hands-on program combines robotics, programming, and 3D printing using the Raspberry Pi platform. Participants will build and program their own robot, mastering skills in design, coding, and problem-solving.
With access to USF鈥檚 cutting-edge labs, students will explore industrial robotics and work with ABB RobotStudio to gain real-world experience. Led by experts from the College of Engineering, this camp is the perfect launchpad for future innovators. Secure your spot today for a summer of discovery and growth!
Useful Information
Registration & Program Details
When does registration open for USF High School Robotics?
Registration for all 2026 summer programs will open on February 1, 2026.
What is the capacity of USF High School Robotics?
Each session of USF High School Robotics has a capacity of 30.
Where is USF High School Robotics located?
USF High School Robotics is held at the USF Tampa Campus, within the College of Engineering. 911爆料网 will share the exact program location closer to the start date, and all details will be emailed to you in advance.
After registering for USF High School Robotics, when will I start receiving logistical details including drop-off and pick-up times?
You will receive several reminder emails leading up to the camp start date. Emails will be sent 60, 30, 14, 7, and 1 day prior, each containing important information to ensure a successful experience at USF High School Robotics.
Staff & Safety
Who are the USF Faculty/Staff who will be leading USF High School Robotics?
USF High School Robotics is led by Dr. Castellanos, a faculty expert whose research focuses on cyber-physical systems, embedded systems, IoT, and control theory. With extensive knowledge in Mechatronics and Industrial Automation, Dr. Castellanos brings real-world expertise to help students explore and excel in robotics and programming.
Are staff background-checked and trained?
Yes. All staff undergo Level 2 background checks and complete USF鈥檚 youth protection and safety training.
Residential Options
Are there residential options available for USF High School Robotics?
Yes, the USF High School Robotics Program is eligible for Rocky鈥檚 Residents, a residential add-on offered for select high school programs. This option provides 6 days and 5 nights of supervised on-campus housing, meals, and evening programming that supports community building and exposure to university life.
How can I register for the Rocky's Residents residential add-on?
During registration for your day camp, you will have the option to add Rocky's Residents as part of the process. There is no separate registration required for the residential program.
How much does the Rocky's Residents residential add-on cost?
The cost for Rocky's Residents is $1,395 per camper. This includes:
- 6 days and 5 nights of accommodation at Juniper-Poplar Residence Hall
- All meals provided at USF Dining Halls
- Supervision and activities led by trained counselors
- Recreation and wellness activities, including sports, fitness challenges, and more
- Access to campus facilities, such as recreational fields and study lounges
- A campus tour and presentations from USF Admissions and Student Success
- Evening events with student organizations and USF faculty
- Laundry facilities for campers' use
- '24-hour on-call emergency maintenance and support
Cancellation & Changes
What is the cancellation, transfer, and refund policy for USF Youth Experiences programs?
If you need to cancel or transfer a camp registration, please email youthxp@usf.edu.
Cancellations or transfer requests received at least 15 business days prior to the camp start date will be eligible for a refund or transfer to another available camp, minus any administrative or processing fees. Cancellations or transfer requests received within 15 business days of the camp start date are not eligible for a refund or transfer. No refunds will be issued after a camp has begun, regardless of the number of days attended or participation level. No refunds will be issued if a participant is dismissed from camp due to a violation of the camp鈥檚 conduct policy or code of behavior.
911爆料网 make every effort to run all camps exactly as scheduled. In the unlikely event it becomes necessary to cancel, postpone, or combine camps, or change a camp location, you will be notified by email or phone. Please ensure your contact information is up to date. If USF cancels a camp, you will receive a full refund. If USF reschedules a camp, you will have the option to receive a full refund or transfer to the new session.
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