NORTH VANCOUVER, BC, March 03, 2026 -- Blue-Lightning Robotics (FRC Team 11149), a newly formed grassroots youth robotics team based in North Vancouver, is preparing to compete at the FIRST® Robotics Competition (FRC) on March 6–7. The event marks the team's debut season on an international stage where students design, build, and program industrial-scale robots under strict time and engineering constraints.

Founded by Lead Mentor George Tseng with the support of local families and volunteer mentors, Blue-Lightning Robotics was established to expand accessible, community-based STEM education opportunities for local youth. During an intensive build season, students collaborated to design, fabricate, wire, and program a competition-ready robot while gaining hands-on experience in mechanical design, coding, systems integration, and project coordination.

Launching a new team from the ground up requires strong community backing. Blue-Lightning Robotics gratefully recognizes Polygon for providing critical build space during the pre-competition season, enabling students to work safely and consistently as they prepared for competition. The team also thanks North Shore Neighbourhood House for offering early community space as the program was being established.

In addition, the team extends appreciation to its community sponsors, families, and volunteer mentors whose financial support, in-kind contributions, and countless volunteer hours helped establish a sustainable, mentor-supported program.

"Beyond building robots, our supporters helped us cultivate an ecosystem for real-world engineering," said George Tseng. "Our students aren't just learning STEM — they are developing the character, innovative thinking, and collaborative skills required to become the leaders of tomorrow."

Following the competition season, Blue-Lightning Robotics plans to host community workshops and open house events in Spring and Summer 2026 to introduce younger students and families to robotics and hands-on STEM learning.

Community members interested in supporting the team's continued growth and outreach efforts can contribute at: https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/donation-form/blue-lightning-robotics

About Blue-Lightning Robotics (FRC Team 11149)
Blue-Lightning Robotics is a North Vancouver-based youth robotics initiative participating in the FIRST Robotics Competition, a global program that challenges students to design, build, and compete with industrial-scale robots while developing technical skills, leadership, and teamwork.

To learn more about Blue-Lightning Robotics, visit: https://www.blue-lightning.ca/

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