This weekend, the spirit of innovation will be alive and thriving at the Leonard E. Merrell Center in Katy, Texas, as more than 300 bright young minds from across Harris County converge for the highly anticipated 2025 All-Earth Ecobot Challenge. Hosted by the Center for Afterschool, Summer and Enrichment for Kids (CASE for Kids)—a proud division of the Harris County Department of Education—the annual STEM competition is set to inspire the next generation of engineers, environmentalists, and tech leaders.

Now in its latest chapter, the Ecobot Challenge is more than just a robotics competition; it’s a gateway for fourth- through eighth-grade students to dive deep into real-world environmental and engineering challenges. Armed with LEGO Education robotics kits, students have been hard at work since the fall, designing, building, and coding autonomous robots capable of tackling sustainability-themed missions.

This year’s theme, “Package Patrol,” invites students to explore the logistics and environmental impact of the global shipping industry. Through hands-on, project-based problem-solving, teams will navigate simulated scenarios reflecting modern energy use, material sourcing, and the complexities of packaging and delivery systems—from factory floor to front porch.

The competition is not only a celebration of STEM excellence but also a platform where creativity meets collaboration. Teams from a diverse range of area school districts and charter schools will showcase their designs and compete for coveted top honors and cash prizes. Adding to the event's prestige, a panel of industry professionals and STEM experts will evaluate each team’s performance, offering students a rare opportunity to present their work to real-world engineers and thought leaders.

Beyond the competition floor, the Ecobot Challenge also features the Eco-Genius Lab—a dynamic space where students can participate in interactive STEM activities, further enriching their hands-on learning experience. This lab, staffed by dedicated CASE for Kids collaborators, ensures that every student walks away with new knowledge, skills, and a deeper appreciation for sustainable innovation.

CASE for Kids Director Lisa Caruthers, Ecobot lead teacher and game designer Joe Panietz, along with a host of STEM professionals, educators, and community partners, will be on hand to encourage, celebrate, and empower students throughout the day.

Event Details:
📅 Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
🕘 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
📍 Location: Leonard E. Merrell Center, 6301 S. Stadium Ln., Katy, TX 77494

The All-Earth Ecobot Challenge is an inspiring example of how Houston is nurturing young talent in STEM and sustainability, preparing future leaders to tackle the global challenges of tomorrow—today.