Ustar STEM Lab
USTAR does not offer isolated classes. We provide structured, long-term engineering pathways that guide students step-by-step from their first build to elite robotics competition, AI systems, and advanced engineering design.
Ustar STEM Lab is where young innovators take their first steps toward building the future. Our lab has grown into a dynamic learning environment focused on hands-on and innovate STEM education. We equip students with real-world skills in robotics, engineering, drone technology, 3D printing, maker space and design thinking — all led by experienced mentors who bring competition-level insight to every class.
Every class is delivered in small groups (maximum 8 students), project-based, and guided by experienced instructors.
Students do not simply learn concepts — they build, program, design, and compete.
This structured pathway ensures students develop real engineering capability, not fragmented skills.
Robotics Engineering Pathway
For Your Child:
Ages 7–10 | Robotics Systems Development
Ages 9–14 | Competition Robotics Track
Ages 10–16 | Advanced Robotics & VRC Competition
Coding & Computer Science Pathway
For Your Child:
Ages 7–10 | Coding Transition & Application Development
Ages 10–14 | Engineering Coding & System Control
Ages 12–16 | Advanced Computer Science
Electronics & Engineering Pathway
For Your Child:
Ages 7–11 | Electronics Foundations
Ages 10–14 | Embedded Systems & Engineering Platforms
Ages 13–16 | Advanced Engineering Design & Fabrication
AI & Emerging Technology Pathway
For Your Child:
Ages 10–14 | Autonomous Systems
Ages 12–16 | Advanced AI Engineering
Spring Classes
From First Robot to Championship Teams
Robotics integrates mechanical engineering, programming, electronics, and strategic thinking.
It is the most powerful way for students to develop real engineering capability.
Ages 5–7 | Robotics Foundations
For Your Child:
• LEGO Robotics Essential Foundation
• FLL Explore
Ages 7–14 | Robotics Systems Development
For Your Child:
• VEX IQ Foundation
• Mega Robots
Ages 9–14 | Advanced Robotics
For Your Child:
Ages 10–16 | Competition Robotics Track
For Your Child:
VEX Go Foundation
Age 5-8, Level 1-2
Discover the world of robotics with Ustar Education’s Vex Go learning program.
Designed for young learners, our Vex Go program introduces students to the fundamentals of robotics in a fun and engaging way. Through hands-on activities, students will learn to build and program their own Vex Go robots, gaining a solid foundation in robotics concepts, problem-solving, and logical thinking.
Our experienced instructors provide guidance and support as students explore the Vex Go platform, fostering creativity, collaboration, and a passion for STEM education.
Join us at Ustar Education and embark on an exciting journey of discovery and innovation with Vex Go.
Lego Robotics Essential Foundation
Age 6+
Explore the Joy of Robotics with LEGO SPIKE Essential!
Designed for young learners, Ustar’s LEGO Robotics Essential Foundation program introduces students to the world of STEAM through hands-on building, coding, and creative storytelling. Using the LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Essential set, students tackle real-world challenges, design fun robotic solutions, and bring stories to life—all while developing critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
With themed projects like boat trips, amusement parks, and tech-powered playgrounds, every session sparks imagination and builds confidence.
FLL Explore
Age 6-10
FIRST® LEGO® League Explore: Build, Code, and Innovate
Introduce your child to the exciting world of STEM with the FIRST® LEGO® League Explore program!
Designed for ages 6–10, this hands-on course combines LEGO® model building, basic coding, and creative problem-solving. Students will explore real-world challenges, develop teamwork skills, and create an innovation project to present at a local tournament.
Through fun, structured sessions, children learn to think critically, collaborate effectively, and gain confidence in sharing their ideas—all while building and programming their own interactive LEGO® creations.
A perfect first step into robotics, teamwork, and innovation!
Prime Real Life
Age 7-13
This hands-on robotics camp brings real-life challenges into the classroom using LEGO SPIKE™ Prime. Through engaging themed units like Invention Squad, Life Hacks, and Competition Ready, students will build robots to solve everyday problems—from package automation to weather tracking and smart tools for daily life.
Campers will learn to design, code, and optimize robots using sensors, motors, and logic blocks while practicing teamwork and creative problem-solving. They’ll explore the complete design process and build confidence through engineering challenges that reflect real-world applications.
Ideal for students who love building and thinking critically, this camp bridges technology with real life—preparing young innovators not just for robotics, but for the future.
VEX IQ Foundation
Age 8-13, Level 1-3
Embark on a dynamic learning adventure with Ustar Education’s Vex IQ program. It includes 3 levels from basic to advance to competition prep.
Designed for students seeking a comprehensive understanding of robotics, our Vex IQ program offers a hands-on approach to learning. Through a systematic curriculum, students will delve into the world of Vex IQ, constructing and programming their own robots to tackle exciting challenges.
Under the guidance of our experienced instructors, students will develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills while exploring the principles of engineering and design.
Join us at Ustar Education and unleash your potential in robotics with our engaging Vex IQ learning program.
VEX VRC Foundation
Age 10+
The VEX VRC course offered by Ustar Education is a comprehensive program designed to teach students about robotics and coding. The course is divided into three levels, each focusing on different aspects of robotics and competition.
Level 1, students learn about VRC coding, competition templates, and sensor introduction and application. They also build a base robot to practice their coding skills.
Level 2 focuses on robot building mechanisms and structures, with an emphasis on optimizing robot performance through coding. Students learn about drivetrain building, shooting mechanisms, intake mechanisms, and more.
Level 3 is for competitive teams, where students form teams of 3-4 members and prepare for competitive seasons
Overall, the VEX VRC course equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in robotics competitions and join robotics teams.
Design your own VRC Robot
10+
Step into the world of robotics design with our advanced CAD course!
Students will collaborate to design a full competition-ready robot—from drivetrain to intake systems—using professional CAD software. Along the way, they’ll explore engineering principles, develop real-world problem-solving skills, and bring their creative ideas to life, one part at a time.
Mega Robots
Age 10+
Experience the thrill of robotics and engineering with Ustar Mega Robots program! This hands-on course lets students design, build, and drive their own fully functional robotic vehicles, exploring mechanical design, robotics, and large-scale problem-solving.
From engineering robotic attachments like grabber arms and Nerf blasters to navigating technical driving courses, students will develop hands-on fabrication skills and master precision control. With expert guidance, they’ll gain confidence in robotics, vehicle design, and real-world engineering challenges—all while having a blast!
VEX IQ COMPETITION Team Coach
Age 9-14
Get ready to take your Vex IQ game to the next level with Ustar Education’s Vex IQ Competition Team Coach Program.
Designed for students aiming to excel in Vex IQ competitions, our program provides intensive training and preparation. Through a series of hands-on activities, practice matches, and strategic discussions, students will refine their robot construction, programming, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
Our experienced instructors will guide students in analyzing game elements, developing effective strategies, and optimizing their robot’s performance.
Join us at Ustar Education and elevate your competitive edge with our Vex IQ Competition Team Coach Program.
FLL Challenge Tournament Prep
Age 9-14
FIRST® LEGO® League Challenge Prep: Compete, Innovate, and Lead
Get ready for the excitement of competition with the FIRST® LEGO® League Challenge Prep Course!
This advanced robotics program is designed to help students build the skills, confidence, and strategy needed for FLL Challenge tournaments. Students will dive deep into robot design, advanced coding, teamwork, and real-world innovation. With guidance from experienced coaches, teams will explore FLL’s four key pillars: Core Values, Robot Design, Robot Game, and Innovation Project.
Through hands-on missions and creative problem-solving, students will develop strategic thinking, engineering know-how, and presentation skills—all while preparing to compete at a local FLL tournament.
Perfect for students ready to take robotics to the next level!
VRC COMPETITION Team prep
Age 10+
Join Ustar Education’s VRC Competition Team and take your robotics skills to the next level!
This 6-month intensive training program is designed for teams of 3-5 members, providing hands-on experience in robot design, strategy, and competition. Participants will train three times a week, compete in five local VEX Robotics tournaments, and refine their robot designs with expert guidance.
Ustar provides state-of-the-art training facilities, tools, and coaching, while teams bring their own robotics materials. Whether you’re an aspiring engineer or a robotics enthusiast, this program will prepare you to compete, innovate, and excel in the world of VEX Robotics!
Drone Technology Program
Age 10+
Take flight with Ustar Education’s Drone Technology Program, a hands-on experience that combines the thrill of piloting drones with the creativity of coding. This program is designed to inspire students and provide a comprehensive introduction to drone technology.
Students will work with drones equipped with 7 advanced sensors, gaining insights into their functionality and practical applications. They will also master dual control options, learning to operate drones manually using a remote controller or programming them for automated flight.
The program includes pilot training to develop essential flight skills, focusing on safety and precision. Additionally, students will explore coding concepts by programming drones to perform tasks, navigate obstacles, and execute complex maneuvers.
Perfect for aspiring tech enthusiasts and future engineers, this program equips students with the skills and confidence to excel in the exciting world of drone technology. Join us today and soar into the future of innovation!
From First Code to Advanced Software Engineering
Programming is the foundation of modern technology. USTAR develops true computational thinking through structured progression from visual coding to advanced software engineering.
Ages 5–7 | Coding Foundations
Ages 7–10 | Coding Transition & Application Development
Ages 10–14 | Engineering Coding & System Control
For Your Child:
Ages 12–16 | Advanced Computer Science
Scratch Programming
Recommended Age: 5+
Scratch introduces young learners to the fundamentals of computational thinking through visual, block-based coding. Students learn how to build interactive stories, animations, and games while developing logical sequencing, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Skills developed:
- Logical thinking & sequencing
- Creativity and storytelling
- Early problem-solving
- Confidence with technology
Scratch serves as the ideal first step into programming and prepares students for more advanced coding languages.
PictoBlox AI Programming
Recommended Age: 5+
PictoBlox allows students to explore Artificial Intelligence concepts in an age-appropriate and engaging way. Using block-based coding, students experiment with AI features such as image recognition, speech recognition, and interactive robotics projects.
Skills developed:
- Introduction to AI concepts
- Interactive coding and logic
- Creative experimentation
- Early robotics integration
This course helps students understand how AI works behind the scenes while keeping learning fun and hands-on.
Tinkercad – 3D Design
Recommended Age: 5+
In Tinkercad Design, students learn how to turn ideas into 3D models. Through guided projects, they explore spatial reasoning, digital design, and creative prototyping.
Skills developed:
- 3D spatial thinking
- Design fundamentals
- Creativity and visualization
- Preparation for CAD tools
This course lays the foundation for advanced design software such as Fusion 360 and SolidWorks.
Tinkercad – Circuits
Recommended Age: 7+
Tinkercad Circuits introduces students to basic electronics through simulation and hands-on circuit design. Students learn how components work together and how code interacts with hardware.
Skills developed:
- Basic electronics concepts
- Circuit logic and troubleshooting
- Introduction to hardware-software interaction
This course prepares students for Arduino and robotics-based engineering programs.
AI Explorer
Recommended Age: 7-9
AI Explorer = AI Foundation + Critical Transition Course
It helps students:
·Move from basic coding to AI thinking
·Prepare cognitively for Python, Robotics, and Engineering courses
·Develop a correct understanding of AI as something designed—not magic or automation
·AI Foundations (Understanding, Not Memorizing)
Students are introduced—at an age-appropriate level—to key AI ideas, including:
·Neural Networks
·Reinforcement Learning (how AI learns from feedback)
·Decision Trees (how AI makes choices)
·Natural Language ·Processing (NLP) (how AI understands text and speech)
💡 The focus is not formulas, but questions like:
Why can AI make this judgment? What is it based on?
MIT App Inventor
Recommended Age: 8–12
Students design and build fully functional mobile apps using MIT App Inventor. This course bridges creative coding and real-world problem-solving by allowing students to see their ideas come to life on mobile devices.
Skills developed:
- App logic and UI design
- Problem-solving through coding
- Computational thinking
- User-centered design
MIT App Inventor is an excellent transition from block-based coding to structured programming.
EduBlocks (Python Blocks)
Recommended Age: 8–14
EduBlocks introduces Python concepts using a block-based interface that gradually transitions students toward text-based programming. Students learn core programming logic without being overwhelmed by syntax.
Skills developed:
- Python logic foundations
- Algorithmic thinking
- Smooth transition to text-based coding
This course acts as a bridge between beginner coding and full Python programming.
Python Programming (Text-Based)
Recommended Age: 11–16
Students learn real-world Python programming used in data science, automation, AI, and robotics. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving, logic, and writing clean, readable code.
Skills developed:
- Text-based programming proficiency
- Algorithm design
- Debugging and problem-solving
- Preparation for advanced STEM applications
Python is a core language for future technology and engineering fields.
Arduino Basics
Recommended Age: 10+
This course introduces students to Arduino Basics, helping them understand how software interacts with hardware at a deeper level. Students gain insight into memory, logic flow, and system-level thinking.
Skills developed:
- Low-level programming concepts
- Logical precision
- Foundation for robotics and embedded systems
Arduino Basics builds strong fundamentals for engineering and robotics pathways.
Arduino Robotics
Recommended Age: 10+
Students work with real Arduino hardware to design, code, and build functional electronic and robotic systems. Projects include sensors, motors, and automation-based challenges.
Skills developed:
- Electronics and embedded systems
- Robotics programming
- Engineering problem-solving
- Hardware-software integration
This course connects coding to the physical world and prepares students for robotics competitions and advanced engineering.
Fusion 360 / Onshape (CAD Design)
Recommended Age: 13+
Students learn professional-level CAD tools used by engineers and designers worldwide. Courses cover both basic and advanced design techniques, preparing students for product design and mechanical engineering.
Skills developed:
- Professional 3D CAD modeling
- Engineering design thinking
- Prototyping and real-world application
Fusion 360 and Onshape are industry-relevant tools widely used in engineering and robotics competitions.
Fusion 360 Advanced (Engineering CAD)
Recommended Age: 13+
Fusion 360 Advanced is a high-level engineering CAD course designed for students who are ready to move beyond basic 3D modeling and begin thinking and designing like real engineers.
Skills developed:
Advanced CAD Modeling Skills
Parametric modeling, lofts, sweeps, surface patterns, fillets, chamfers, and precision feature design.Mechanical Design & Engineering Thinking
Understanding gears, gear ratios, pulleys, motion systems, joints, and functional tolerances.Assembly & Motion Simulation
Multi-part assemblies, joint constraints, revolute motion, and mechanical interaction testing.Problem-Solving & Design Iteration
Analyzing failures, refining designs, optimizing structures, and improving functionality through iteration.Precision & Attention to Detail
Engineering accuracy, symmetry, constraints, and manufacturable design practices.Creativity with Engineering Structure
Combining technical accuracy with creative design in functional and aesthetic projects.Competition & Real-World Readiness
Skills directly applicable to robotics competitions, engineering challenges, 3D printing, CNC workflows, and future academic pathways.
3D Printing & Industrial Design
Age 8+
Embark on a dynamic learning adventure with Ustar Education’s Vex IQ program. It includes 3 levels from basic to advance to competition prep.
Designed for students seeking a comprehensive understanding of robotics, our Vex IQ program offers a hands-on approach to learning. Through a systematic curriculum, students will delve into the world of Vex IQ, constructing and programming their own robots to tackle exciting challenges.
Under the guidance of our experienced instructors, students will develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills while exploring the principles of engineering and design.
Join us at Ustar Education and unleash your potential in robotics with our engaging Vex IQ learning program.
3D Printing & Industrial Design
Age 10+
Combat Robotics – Build & Battle Your Own Combat Robot!
Join Ustar Combat Robotics program and dive into the world of Robotic Combat! Learn structural design, materials science, and mechanical engineering while building your own battle-ready robot using polycarbonate armor and VEX VRC components. Under the guidance of an experienced former Prototype Engineer and BattleBots contestant, you’ll design, build, and test powerful weapon systems before competing in intense robot battles.
Maker Space
All ages: 5-7 8-10 11+
A hands-on course where students explore 3D printing, laser cutting, machining, and electronics to build real inventions and kickstart their journey as young makers.
Project based, guided by expert instructors in a collaborative environment, students will strengthen their creative thinking, problem-solving skills, and confidence in hands-on engineering. Join us at Ustar and take your first step toward inventing the future!
Electronics & Fabrication – Basic Circuits
Age 8+
Students learn the basics of electricity, build real gadgets like fans and nightlights, and gain hands-on experience with soldering and tools to kickstart their journey in electronics and fabrication.
Ages 5–8 | Engineering Design Foundations
Ages 7–11 | Electronics Foundations
For Your Child:
Ages 10–14 | Embedded Systems & Engineering Platforms
For Your Child:
Ages 13–16 | Advanced Engineering Design & Fabrication
For Your Child:
Raspberry Pi Engineering Camp
Age 10+
Build Real Electronics. Program Real Systems. Not just coding. Not just robotics. Students learn how software controls the physical world. They will build real engineering projects using:
• Python programming
• Electronics and circuit design
• Sensors and hardware control • Motors, displays, and automation
• Internet-connected smart systems From blinking their first LED to building real interactive devices, students develop true engineering confidence.
What Students Gain Engineering thinking Programming foundations in Python Real hardware experience Problem-solving and system design skills Preparation for robotics, AI, and advanced STEM pathways Ages 10–14
Small Group ·
Project-Based · Instructor-Guided
available.
Airboat project
Age 9-13
Students design, build, and race their own RC catamaran airboats while learning engineering, radio control systems, and hands-on tool skills in a fun and competitive environment.
Sticker Design & CNC Cutting
Age 8+
Step into the world of custom sticker design and digital fabrication! In this hands-on course, students will learn to create professional vinyl stickers from start to finish — using Adobe Illustrator and a CNC vinyl cutter to bring their ideas to life. They’ll explore vector art, machine operation, and layering techniques while building a unique collection of their own original stickers. Perfect for young creators who love design, making, and turning imagination into something they can hold.
Ages 5–9 | AI Foundations
Ages 10–14 | Autonomous Systems
For Your Child:
Ages 12–16 | Advanced AI Engineering
For Your Child:
Elementary Science Olympiad
Age 8-11
The Elementary Science Olympiad consists of events from the three broad areas of science education: 1. Science process and thinking skills; 2. Science concepts and knowledge; 3.Science application and technology skills. In this class students get familiar with some Science Olympiad basic concepts through hands-on activities. Children learn some STEM concepts like anatomy, chemistry, physics and engineering.
Robotics Control System Coding
Age 9+
This advanced robotics course is designed for students who want to dive deeper into real-world control systems. Over 10 sessions, students will learn how to build and program intelligent robots that react to their environment with precision and stability.
Each week focuses on a core robotics control concept—from basic speed and turning, to wall following using distance sensors, to smooth line following with proportional control. Students will also explore balance control using PID tuning and real-time strategy through sensor-based robot sumo battles.
Through hands-on builds and coding, students will gain a practical understanding of motion control, feedback loops, and system optimization—equipping them with key engineering skills used in autonomous vehicles and robotics competitions.
Data Structures and Algorithm
Age 10+
In this comprehensive 11-week program, students will explore the most essential concepts in computer science, including arrays, recursion, binary search, linked lists, trees, graphs, and more. Each lesson combines clear instruction with hands-on coding challenges, helping students develop strong problem-solving skills, algorithmic thinking, and real confidence in tackling technical problems.
Perfect for students preparing for AP Computer Science, coding competitions, or future internships, this course builds the foundation needed to succeed in advanced computer science and software development.
Summer Camp 2026
Age 5+
This summer, Ustar Summer Camp offers an exciting blend of STEM, robotics, coding, entrepreneurship, and creative arts for students of all ages. Through hands-on activities, students will build robots, code in Python, fly drones, create business projects, and explore 3D design in a fun and supportive environment.
From VEX and LEGO robotics competitions to coding, 3D printing, and financial literacy, each camp is designed to inspire creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Whether your child dreams of becoming an engineer, entrepreneur, or artist, Ustar has the perfect camp to fuel their passion. Join us this summer and spark a love for innovation!
Session Award
2025-2026
📅 September 6, 2025
VEX IQ Northern California — Season Opener
🏆 Team Champion
Team: 61666C Breakfast
Ranked 1st throughout all matches
Only team to achieve Vertical Scoring
📅 September 13, 2025
VEX IQ Dublin Tournament
🏆 Skills Champion
Team: 61666C Breakfast
World Skills Ranking: #13
U.S. Skills Ranking: #1
📅 October 4, 2025
VEX IQ East Palo Alto Tournament
🏆 Excellence Award (Highest Honor)
Team: 61666C Breakfast
Awarded among 50 competing teams
Only team to implement a functional vertical mechanism
📅 October 18, 2025
VRC Middle School — Dublin
🏆 Skills Champion
Team: 68699A
First-ever VRC competition appearance
World Ranking: #19
U.S. Ranking: #6
📅 November 23–24, 2025
One World VRC V5 National Invitational — Berkeley
🏆 Innovate Award
🏆 Tournament Semi-Finalist
Team: Ustar VRC V5
Only team at the event to receive two official awards
📅 December 6, 2025 | VEX V5 Dublin Robotics Tournament
Team 68699A (Middle School Division) –Top 3 overall among all teams.
Team 68699A:Excellence Award (Middle School Division)
📅Jan 4, 2026 | VEX V5 Robotics Competition — NorCal Silicon Valley
Award: Design Award
Team: 2432X (BetaBotz)
📅Jan 11, 2026 | VEX V5 Robotics Competition — Inobotics
Award: Innovate Award
Team: 2432X (BetaBotz)
📅Jan 11th 2026 | VEX AI Competition
Award: Design Award
Team: 69699A (VEX AI Team)
🏆 February 7, 2026 — VEX V5 Dublin Tournament
Team:Ustar STEM Lab Team 68699A
🥇 Excellence Award
🥇 Skills Champion
🥇 Teamwork Champion
🏆 Team Achievements
VEX IQ Team 61666G — “Dinner”
🥉 3rd Place – State Champion Division
VEX V5 Team 68699A — “Driving Nuggets”
🥇 Amaze Award
🥈 State Semi-Finalist (Top 4)
🌎 Qualified for the VEX World Championship (Double Qualification)
VEX V5 Team 2432X — “BetaBotz” (All-Girls Team)
🏅 Judges Award
🌟 USTAR VEX IQ Teams Advancing to State Championship
The following teams all successfully advanced to the State Championship this season:
61666C
61666G
61666F
61666H
This marks a major milestone for our VEX IQ program.
Team 68699A (Driving Nuggets)
🥇 Skills Champion 🏅 Division Semi-Finalist
in US VEX V5 Robotics Competition, competing among the Top 150 teams worldwide.
2024-2025
🏆 2024-2025 Competition Achievements Summary
With the successful conclusion of last week’s Local Competition, Ustar Robotics has reached a milestone this season—all IQ & VRC teams have advanced to the Northern California State Championship!
✅ VEX IQ teams qualifying for the Northern California State Championship (Elementary & Middle School divisions):
61666B, 61666C, 61666D, 81666A, 81666B
✅ VRC teams qualifying for the Northern California State Championship (Middle & High School divisions):
68699A, 68699B, 68699C, 88998X
Over the past few months of intense competitions, our team members have continuously challenged themselves and refined their skills. They have demonstrated remarkable growth in strategy development, programming, and mechanical design. Their dedication has not only brought them personal achievements but also made our entire team shine in highly competitive tournaments!
Let’s look back on some of the season’s highlights:
📅 December 2024 | VEX IQ Competition
🏆 61666C – Team Championship Award & Excellence Award (first team in Northern California to qualify for State)
🏆 81666A – Robot Innovate Award
🏆 61666C – Robot Design Award
📅 January 20, 2025 | Rumble In the Rockies VEX V5 Signature Event
🏆 VRC 68699A – Think Award
📅 January 25, 2025 | Dublin VRC Competition
🏆 VRC 68699B – Tournament Finalist
🏆 VRC 88998X – Judge’s Award
🏆 VRC 68699C – Excellence Award
📅 February 1, 2025 | VEX IQ Competition
🏆 IQ 81666B – Robot Skills Award & Team Champion Award (double champion)
📅 February 3, 2025 | VEX IQ Competition
🏆 IQ 61666C – Think Award
🏆 IQ 81666D – Build Award
🏆 IQ 81666B – Ranked 1st in Qualifying Matches
📅 February 8, 2025
🏆 VRC 68699B – Excellence Award, earned qualification for US OPEN Nationals
📅 February 22, 2025
🏆 IQ 81666B – Innovate Award
🏆IQ 61666C State championship Innovate award, Team champion 2nd place, qualify to World Championship
🏆IQ 61666C World Championship, division Top 5
STEM Lab Teachers
Coach Hardeep
STEM/Robotics Teacher
A highly experienced STEMeducator with a background in mechanical design and programming, specializing in robotics, coding, and engineering design for K–12 students.Skilled in professional tools such as Onshape, Fusion 360, and SolidWorks, and is well known for mentoring students in robotics competitions—helping them turn ideas into real, working projects.
He focuses on helping learners bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. Driven by the philosophy that learning should be interactive and enjoyable, I strive to cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love for STEM in every student.
Coach Evan Zhou
STEM/ Science Olympiad/Physics Teacher
PhD in Condensed Matter Physics | National Lab Researcher | STEM Educator
Dr. Zhou holds a PhD from a top-10 university in China and has conducted advanced research at national laboratories. With deep expertise in physics and mathematics, he is known for turning complex concepts into clear, engaging lessons that students can truly understand. His teaching builds strong problem-solving skills, scientific thinking, and confidence—helping students excel in both physics and math.
Teacher Michael
Robotics Teacher
Coach Michael began by climbing the ranks of a competitive robotics team, leading them to win “Best Engineered” and “Best Designed” awards. With a passion for mechanics and problem-solving, he has experience designing robots from scratch and rebuilding cars. He focuses on gaining more knowledge and studying to enhance his skills for teaching future generations.
Coach Nathan
Robotics Teacher
Nathaniel Esquivel is a STEM educator with years of experience teaching mechanical engineering and software engineering to younger students. He uses VEX and LEGO to coach both competitive and recreational robotics teams. Nathaniel continues his passion in college at Mechanical engineery and hopes to use his degree to educate the minds of future engineers.
Coach Armando
STEM/Robotics Teacher
Mechanical Engineer |
VEX Robotics Expert
From Theory to Competition Mastery
- Mechanical Engineering M.S. (San José State, UC Riverside)
- Years of VEX V5 Design & Build Experience
- Guides Students from Basic Skills to Advanced Engineering
Why Parents Love Him: Coach Armando isn’t just a teacher—he’s a mentor who turns young learners into real engineering thinkers. With a strong mechanical background and a passion for system-level design, he helps kids understand not just how to build, but why designs work.
Coach Chenglin
Robotics Expert & Mentor
A passionate and accomplished coach with a Master’s degree in Software Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University and a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from University of Maryland. Chenglin has over 10 years of hands-on robotics competition experience, including winning the World Champion title at RoboCup Junior 2013 Rescue A competition in Eindhoven, Netherlands. He has a strong background in robot design and programming.
Teacher Austin
Math /Coding Teacher
Austin is a seasoned software engineer with 7+years of experience, mostrecently at Meta. He brings awealth of technical expertiseand a deep passion forteaching the next generation ofcoders. Austin holds at Masters in Computer Scienceat Georgia Tech.
Mr.Caleb
Robotics Teacher
Meet Caleb, an enthusiastic and skilled coach at our robotics lab school, dedicated to teaching and inspiring young minds. With a communication B.A. and a master’s degree in urban planning. He is also pursuing a second master in computer science, Caleb brings a unique mix of technical and communication skills to the classroom. He specializes in Python programming, graphic GIS, and robotics, while also training VEX teams in driving and teamwork. Caleb’s passion for teaching and his ability to engage and excite students make him an exceptional mentor in the world of robotics education.
Coach Maikel
STEM/Robotics Coach
Coach Maikel is a passionate coach with over seven years of experience guiding students in math, physics, and robotics. He earned his Mechanical Engineering degree from UC Berkeley and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Robotics at the University of Cincinnati. Maikel has led high school FRC teams as well as middle school FTC and VEX teams, mentoring students through hands-on engineering challenges and competitions. With his energetic and engaging coaching style, he inspires curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving, empowering the next generation of STEM innovators.
Ustar Education Cupertino Site:
1340 S De Anza Blvd suite 104，San Jose, CA 95129
Ustar Education Los Alto/Mountain View Site:
858 University Ave, Los Altos, CA 94024
Phone Number: +1 (408) 352-5488
Onsite: stemlab@loveustar.com
