Unearthing Innovation: Digging Into the Next Season!
The upcoming 2025/2026 FIRST season, themed FIRST AGE™ presented by Qualcomm, promises an exciting journey into the past to inspire the future. Brown County FIRST Robotics families can anticipate a season rich in discovery, learning, and collaboration, all centered around an engaging archaeology-inspired theme.
The overarching theme for all FIRST programs in 2025-2026 is an archaeology-inspired theme that encourages participants to explore how past innovations connect us to the people and ideas that came before. Teams will use STEM skills and teamwork to “dig deeper into discoveries” and uncover solutions for a better world.
Mentors make robots go round’!
Our BCFR program is growing, and we need your help! We’re seeking mentors for the upcoming season to guide and inspire our participants. This is a fantastic professional development opportunity, often supported by local employers, allowing you to build valuable skills while making a real difference. If you can spare an hour a week or a few hours a month, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to [email protected] for more information!
Sponsor Highlight
BCFR is thrilled to announce Foth, a leading science and engineering consulting firm, as a major sponsor for the 2025/2026 robotics season! This generous partnership will be instrumental in empowering our students to develop critical skills for future careers in STEM.
Foth’s commitment to BCFR aligns with their dedication to advancing STEM education and fostering the next generation of innovators. Their support will directly fund advanced robotics components, allow for participation in high-level competitions, and provide enhanced mentorship opportunities.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, BCFR relies on the generosity of passionate supporters to keep our mission moving — inspiring young minds to become tomorrow’s problem-solvers, creators, and leaders. If your organization is interested in partnering with us, please reach out via our website at www.browncountyfirstrobotics.org
Onshape workshop gets kids building!
On June 26th, FIRST Technical Challenge Director Nic Kaufmann and members of FRC Team 9578 Player One conducted an “Intro to CAD” design workshop at the Mulva Cultural Center in De Pere, WI. This three-hour session, designed for young creators, aimed to unleash their inner designer by guiding them through the basics of 3D modeling using the user-friendly Onshape platform.
We’ll be back at the Mulva on July 28th with an Into to Coding workshop! Registration is still open and more information can be found here Mulva Cultural Center
Welcome to our newly elected Board Members!
Vice President- Mark Finn
Mark is a mentor with Redbird Robotics and the parent of two students in the program. With a background in electrical engineering and a career in software development—and a love of mechanical design—he brings technical expertise and a passion for hands-on learning to his work with student teams. An avid tinkerer and maker, Mark is an alumnus of a similar hands-on program in college and was a founding member of a local makerspace. As a member of Brown County FIRST Robotics, he is excited to be expanding access to STEM opportunities that emphasize hands-on projects, creative problem solving, and the life skills that come from teamwork, persistence, and responsibility.
Treasurer- Jolie Wavrunek
Jolie manages the development and execution of digital marketing campaigns at WBAY, part of Gray Media Group. Jolie is also highly engaged in her community and served as president of the Wilder Elementary PTO and actively volunteers with local youth sports. As a parent, she understands the impact hands-on learning and mentorship can have, which is why she’s proud to contribute to BCFR’s mission.
FLL Challenge Director- Jake Wavrunek
Jake is an enthusiast for both technology and the great outdoors, dedicated to creating memorable experiences with his family through camping and fishing adventures with his wife and kids. He has a passion for restoring vintage video game and arcade machines, reviving the charm of classic technology. This blend of outdoor exploration and technical skill highlights his diverse interests. Jake embraces life with passion and a commitment to fostering creativity and connection.
Upcoming Events
We are frequently out and about in the community! Stop by and see us at any one of these upcoming events!
- FLL Kickoff Event- September 4, 2025- Mulva Cultural Center
- FTC Kickoff Event- September 6, 2025- Lakeshore FIRST Robotics Center
- Homeschool & Community Connections Expo September 9th
- The Power of STEM: Weyers-Hilliard Branch Library- September 17th
- BIG Event for Kids September 20, 2025- Heritage Hill