The USF Middle School Robotics Camp, in collaboration with the USF College of Engineering on the Tampa campus, offers an exciting hands-on experience. Participants will build and program their own Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR), 3D print components, and explore real-life industrial robots.
By week’s end, students will take home their AMR, robotics kit, and programming files to continue learning. This camp blends creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills, providing middle schoolers with a strong foundation in robotics and programming. Join us for a week of innovation and fun!
USF Middle School Robotics Details
Camp Director: Dr. Alexandro Castellanos
Location: USF Tampa - DFX Lab
Grade Levels: Entering 6th - 8th
Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Cost: $999.99
| Dates | Campus |
|---|---|
| June 15th - 19th, 2026 | USF Tampa |
| July 13th - 17th, 2026 | USF Tampa |
What to Expect
Hands-On Robotics Design
Campers will dive into robotics by designing electrical circuits with sensors and actuators, learning to program them using the Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE). This hands-on experience builds foundational skills essential for creating functional and interactive robots.
3D Printing and Building
Campers will learn 3D printing fundamentals to design and assemble an Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) from a provided kit, featuring the Arduino microcontroller. This creative process combines technical skills with problem-solving as students bring their robots to life.
Programming and Challenges
Using the Arduino IDE, students will write programs using software libraries to help their robots navigate surroundings and interact with their environment. They will incorporate sensors and actuators to complete exciting challenges that test their robots’ capabilities.
Industrial Robot Interaction
Campers will explore ABB ROBOTSTUDIO fundamentals, gaining hands-on experience with real industrial robots in USF’s state-of-the-art labs. This exposure provides a unique look into advanced robotics technology and applications in the real world.
Explore the exciting world of robotics at the USF Middle School Robotics Camp, hosted in collaboration with the USF College of Engineering. 911±¬ÁÏÍø will design and build their own Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR), program it using Arduino IDE, and incorporate sensors and actuators to navigate and interact with its environment. At the end of the camp, participants take home their robot, along with the skills and knowledge to continue exploring robotics.
The program also offers a unique opportunity to work with industrial robots using ABB ROBOTSTUDIO in USF’s advanced labs. Combining hands-on learning, programming, and problem-solving, this camp equips middle schoolers with essential technical skills while fostering creativity and collaboration in a supportive and fun environment.
Useful Information
Registration and Camp Details
Registration & Program Details
When does registration open for the USF Middle School Robotics Camp?
Registration for all 2026 summer camps will open on February 1, 2026.
What is the capacity of the USF Middle School Robotics Camp?
Each session of the USF Middle School Robotics Camp has a capacity of 30.
Where is the USF Middle School Robotics Camp?
The USF Middle School Robotics Camp is held at the USF Tampa Campus. 911±¬ÁÏÍø will share the exact camp location closer to the start date, and all details will be emailed to you in advance.
After registering for the USF Middle School Robotics Camp, when will I start receiving logistical details?
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 the USF Middle School Robotics Camp.
Staff & Safety
Who are the USF Faculty/Staff who will be leading the Level Up! Game Design Studio?
The USF Middle School Robotics Camp 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’s youth protection and safety training.
How are medications handled during camp?
911±¬ÁÏÍø ask families to share any medical information that our staff should be aware of to help keep your child safe. Our team does not hold, offer, or administer medications at any time. If a medical emergency occurs, staff will provide basic support while immediately contacting emergency services (911).
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’s conduct policy or code of behavior.
911±¬ÁÏÍø 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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