The CryptoHawks believe that robotics and STEM education shouldn't stop at the lab door. We actively work to bring hands-on science and engineering experiences to students throughout the Urbana community — from elementary school classrooms to full-scale competitions.
Community Events
STEM Nights & School Visits
Throughout the year, CryptoHawks members visit local schools and community events to run hands-on STEM activities for younger students. These events give kids a chance to see robotics up close, ask questions, and get excited about engineering and technology.
Our students lead the activities — teaching, demonstrating, and mentoring younger kids in the same way they were once introduced to STEM themselves.
Elementary · Summer Camp
LEGO Mindstorm Camp
Each summer, the CryptoHawks run a week-long LEGO Mindstorm camp for elementary school students. Campers get to build and program their own LEGO robots through hands-on challenges — no experience required, just curiosity and a willingness to try.
CryptoHawks students serve as camp counselors and instructors, passing down what they've learned and sparking an early interest in engineering and robotics.
Middle School · Summer Camp
XRP Robotics Camp
For middle school students ready for a bigger challenge, the CryptoHawks run a week-long XRP robotics camp each summer. XRP robots give students a taste of real engineering — programming autonomous behaviors, working through problems, and iterating on their designs.
It's a step up from LEGO and a perfect bridge for students who might one day join a competitive robotics team.
FIRST Lego League
Frederick Qualifier Event
Each season, the CryptoHawks host the FIRST Lego League Frederick Qualifier at Urbana High School. This full-day event brings together elementary and middle school teams from across the region to compete with their LEGO robots, present research projects, and demonstrate their core values.
CryptoHawks students serve as referees, scorekeepers, and volunteers — gaining leadership experience while giving younger students their first taste of competitive robotics.
