Empowering young minds through technology
BLACKSBURG – The YMCA is launching EnginEquity, a free, hands-on coding and robotics workshop designed for youth ages 10–12.
The program is part of the YMCA’s commitment to fostering inclusive educational opportunities that empower young learners and promote equity in STEM.
EnginEquity provides a secure and inclusive learning environment where children can explore science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts safely and confidently. Through engaging, project-based activities, participants will:
Build coding and robotics skills using platforms like Scratch, Python and Arduino.
Learn from experienced educators through interactive lessons in robotics principles.
Create in a safe, supervised digital space designed to encourage exploration and innovation.
Discover a passion for technology, especially among youth who may not otherwise have access to these resources.
What began as a summer camp is now becoming a year-round opportunity for young minds to explore the world of robotics. Thanks to the vision and dedication of Ian Yu, a senior at Blacksburg High School, the YMCA at Virginia Tech is proud to announce the expansion of EnginEquity, a free, hands-on robotics program designed to break down barriers to STEM education.
“I started EnginEquity because I had friends who couldn’t continue with robotics due to how expensive it can be,” said Yu. “I wanted to create something that made robotics accessible to everyone.”
EnginEquity is a six-week workshop tailored for underserved students, ages 10-12 years old. Each participant receives a full robotics kit—provided by the YMCA—including a 3D-printed chassis, high-speed motors, and all the components needed to build and program their own robotic car. The curriculum is designed to be both fun and educational, introducing students to engineering principles, coding, and creative problem-solving.
The program is free to participants and reflects the YMCA’s mission to support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. EnginEquity will start on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 4-5:30 p.m. for six weeks and will take place in The Y Center, 1000 N. Main St, Blacksburg. Space is limited to 15 participants and registration is required.
Registration is now open. For more information or to sign up, visit https://schools.procareconnect.com/form/0f51ac5c-f4a3-473a-a8b7-272e59d2b3c3.
YMCA at Virginia Tech
