BERWYN, Pa. – Two brothers from Wayne are turning their love of science into a community‑wide learning opportunity. Vivaan and Virat Ponugoti, juniors at Conestoga High School, co‑founded Blast Robotics (Team 10989) to give local children a chance to design, build, and compete with robots.

From a missed freshman spot to a regional team

The idea sparked when one of the twins failed to make his high school robotics team as a freshman. Determined to ensure other kids wouldn’t face the same barrier, the brothers set out to create a more inclusive program. Through fundraising, social‑media outreach, and word of mouth, they launched Blast Robotics last year.

Growing membership and competition experience

Within a year the team has attracted roughly 40 members ranging from middle‑schoolers to high‑school seniors. As a FMA (FIRST Mid‑Atlantic) team, Blast Robotics competes in regional events, most recently the “Ramp Riot” competition at Wissahickon High School. Participation in these contests gives students real‑world engineering experience while fostering teamwork and problem‑solving skills.

Community partners fuel the mission

Local businesses have rallied behind the effort. Eadeh Enterprises donated workshop space, and its President & CEO, Stacey H. Ballard, praised the program’s inclusive environment. “From summer camps to raising monies to support the robotics mission and being an inclusive environment where everyone is learning, leading and thinking about the common goal is incredible,” Ballard said.

Blast Robotics is officially chartered by Keystone STEM Alliance Inc., a Pennsylvania nonprofit dedicated to promoting STEM education. The alliance provides additional resources and mentorship, helping the team sustain its growth.

How families can get involved

Parents and community members who want to support the team can volunteer as mentors, donate supplies, or help with fundraising events. The program’s website offers details on upcoming activities, sponsorship opportunities, and ways to join the growing robotics family.

By giving kids hands‑on exposure to engineering and technology, Blast Robotics embodies the values of family‑centered education, faith‑in‑future generations, and individual liberty to explore and create. The Ponugoti twins hope their effort will inspire more young people in the Wayne area to pursue STEM pathways and become the innovators of tomorrow.

Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.