Robotics

UMKC Robotics is a student-driven organization that empowers students from all majors to collaborate on hands-on, real-world projects. Whether working on class assignments or pursuing personal passion projects, we provide the tools, workspace, and community needed to learn, innovate, and grow together.

One of our primary initiatives is designing and building robots for competitive events. These builds challenge our team to think critically, solve problems creatively, and work within real engineering constraints. Competitions not only bring our campus and local community together, but they also promote STEM education, innovation, and teamwork.

By supporting UMKC Robotics, you're helping fund materials, competition entry fees, and outreach efforts that inspire the next generation of engineers, programmers, and problem-solvers. Your donation helps us continue to grow as a team—and share our passion with the community.

Robotics Highlights

• Engineered a Competitive Combat Robot Designed and built a lightweight combat bot that competed at the National Robotics Competition, showcasing our team’s creativity, resilience, and technical excellence.
• Awarded 3rd Place in the NRC SUMO Robot Competition Secured third place in the SUMO robot competition at the National Robotics Competition, demonstrating our skill in autonomous design and strategic programming.
• Built Technology to Support Biomedical Research Created a custom mechanical system to assist active bio-research efforts at UMKC, bridging robotics with real-world scientific applications.
• Turned a Beloved Furby into an AI-Powered Chatbot Revived a classic toy using embedded systems and computer science knowledge, transforming it into a responsive, interactive companion—a fusion of nostalgia and innovation.
• Mentored Future Engineers at WeCodeKC Partnered with WeCodeKC to mentor youth and co-develop the First Pitch Robot, helping young coders and builders bring their first robot to life.
• Promoted STEM Education Across Our Community Led hands-on demos and mentorships through high schools, Girl Scouts, and local STEM outreach events— inspiring the next generation of engineers and innovators.

🎯 Every Dollar Makes a Difference

Help us keep building, learning, and inspiring with a contribution at any level:

💛 $25 – Fuel a Prototype
Jumpstart a team member’s project! Your support helps us purchase essential prototyping materials like breadboards, electronic components, jumper wires, and more.

🔧 $50 – Power Our Builds
Take us one step closer to full functionality. This level helps provide vital hardware including tools, power supplies, and motors that bring our robots to life.

🚀 $100+ – Get Us to the Arena
At this level, you’re helping us go the distance - literally. Your donation supports competition registration fees, travel costs, and accommodations so our team can showcase our work on a bigger stage.