About
Building Leaders.
One Step at a Time.
Our Vision: CentreSTEM empowers Central Pennsylvania’s youth through equitable, hands-on STEM programs that inspire innovation and build our future workforce.
Our Mission: CentreSTEM, Inc. is a Centre County–based nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to hands-on, project-based learning in robotics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Our extracurricular programs benefit K–12 students, particularly those from underrepresented groups or who lack access to advanced STEM opportunities through their school. CentreSTEM develops students’ technical skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and leadership while building a strong pipeline to support Pennsylvania’s workforce and economic growth.
Our Story: CentreSTEM grew out of Centre County 4-H Robotics, a program that started with a single high school FIRST Robotics team in 2012 and blossomed into one of the region's most impactful youth STEM organizations. What began as a small group of students and mentors building robots together quickly expanded into 14 teams, 130+ students from 29+ schools across Centre County, and a 2018 FIRST World Championship victory. As the demand for accessible STEM education in Centre County grew, so did our ambition. CentreSTEM was founded to carry that momentum forward — broadening beyond robotics into artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, and ensuring that every student in the region has the opportunity to explore, create, and innovate regardless of their background or school resources.
Who We Serve: CentreSTEM serves students in 4th through 12th grade from across Centre County and the surrounding Central Pennsylvania region. Our programs welcome all students, no prior STEM experience needed. We're especially committed to reaching kids who may not have access to advanced STEM coursework, equipment, or mentorship through their schools, ensuring that opportunity isn't limited by zip code or circumstance.