Ustar STEM Lab
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.
Spring Classes
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.
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.
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.
VRC COMPETITION Team prep
Age 11-16
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!
3D Printing & Industrial Design
Age 8+
Explore the world of engineering and creativity with Ustar 3D Printing & Industrial Design program! This hands-on course introduces students to 3D modeling, mechanical engineering, and even aerospace concepts through exciting projects. Using industry-standard tools like Fusion 360 and RocketCAD, students will design, prototype, and build real-world models while developing essential STEM skills.
From constructing an air-propelled car to designing and launching model rockets, students will gain practical experience in 3D printing, soldering, and aerodynamics. Whether creating artistic designs or functional prototypes, this program fosters innovation and problem-solving in a fun, engaging environment.
Combat Robotics
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
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
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.
Airboat project
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.
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!
Design your own VRC Robot
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.
Sticker Design & CNC Cutting
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
Ustar Science Lab
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
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
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 2025
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
2024
🏆 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
2025
📅 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📅 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
Early rule analysis, prototyping, and design optimization began during summer
Significance: Team Champion recognizes overall match performance, strategy execution, and robot reliability.
📅 September 13, 2025
VEX IQ Dublin Tournament
🏆 Skills Champion
Team: 61666C Breakfast
World Skills Ranking: #13
U.S. Skills Ranking: #1
Noted for calm on-site debugging and strong strategic execution
Significance: Skills Champion reflects top-tier programming precision and driver control, independent of alliance performance.
📅 October 4, 2025
VEX IQ East Palo Alto Tournament
🏆 Excellence Award (Highest Honor)
Team: 61666C Breakfast
Awarded among 50 competing teams
Evaluated on robot design, programming, engineering notebook, and team interview
Only team to implement a functional vertical mechanism
Significance: Excellence Award is the highest overall award, recognizing balanced excellence across all engineering dimensions.
📅 October 18, 2025
VRC Middle School — Dublin
🏆 Skills Champion
Team: 68699A
First-ever VRC competition appearance
World Ranking: #19
U.S. Ranking: #6
Significance: Skills Champion at VRC level highlights advanced programming logic and high-level driving control.
📅 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
Recognized for structural innovation, mechanical creativity, and unique engineering solutions
Advanced to Semi-Finals, demonstrating strong match strategy and team coordination
Significance: Innovate Award honors exceptional engineering originality; Semi-Finalist reflects national-level competitive strength.
2026
📅 January 4, 2026
NorCal Silicon Valley V5
🏆 Design Award
Team: 2432X BetaBotz (All-Girls Team, First Year)
Recognized for system-level robot design and professional engineering documentation
Significance: Design Award emphasizes engineering clarity, structure, and process expression, not just results.
📅 January 11, 2026
Inobotics V5RC Tournament
🏆 Innovate Award
Team: 2432X BetaBotz
Awarded for innovation in robot structure and programming approach
Significance: Innovate Award reflects deep technical understanding and creative problem-solving.
📣 Milestone Update
✅ State Championship Qualified
Teams: 68699A & 2432X
Both Ustar VRC V5 teams have officially qualified for the State Championship, marking a major competitive milestone.
Roboitcs Lab Teachers
Coach Alec
Lab Manager, Head Coach - Mechanical Systems
Alec’s background ranges from Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Prototyping, to Technical Instruction and Curriculum Design. He has created car-sized Combat Robots for Comedy Central’s “BattleBots”, fabricated gear for Discovery Channel’s “Prototype This”, and designed test equipment for the Sunpower Corporation and Panasonic. In 2007 Alec changed gears (pun intended), and has since focused entirely on Early Technical Education.
Coach Joe
Robotics Coach
Joe holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and has over 10 years of competitive robotics experience, including being key member of Purdue’s Sigbots VEX team that won the 2024 World Championships. With 4 years of teaching experience, he has developed robotics curricula for all skill levels, guiding students in design, programming, CAD, and engineering principles. Passionate about STEM, Joe fosters teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity, helping students—from beginners to advanced competitors
—reach their full potential.
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 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.
Mr. Michael
Robotic 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.
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.
Mr. Sai
Robotics Teacher
Sai is an experienced designer and builder in robotics, and has been competing for four years. He has many accomplishments in VEX VRC, from winning the state championship to becoming division champion at the world championship. He specializes in the mechanical side of robotics and is skilled at designing, building, and tuning robots. Additionally, he has a deep passion for aerospace engineering and has built many passion projects in this field. Sai is eager to share his skills with the students and help them advance in robotics by learning how to use CAD to design more efficient and competitive robots.
Mr.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.
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.
Coach Krish
Robotics Coach
Krish is a dedicated mentor with experience guiding students in robotics, design, and mechanical engineering. He earned his Master’s in Mechanical Engineering and holds a CSWA certification, bringing strong expertise in CAD, design for manufacturing, and hands-on prototyping. Krish has mentored students at NSS and collaborated on robotics research and mechanical design projects, supporting learners in building confidence through real-world problem solving. With his practical knowledge and approachable style, he encourages curiosity, teamwork, and innovation, inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders.
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
