Meet Nix: BLAST Robotics Brings Its Competition Robot to the Edgmont Community Forum

BLAST Robotics took its newest competition robot, Nix, on the road on October 1, joining the Community Career + Education Forum in Edgmont Township to introduce students of all ages to robotics and technical education.

The event was held at the Endress+Hauser Northeast Regional Center and brought together elementary, middle school, and high school students along with parents and community members exploring STEM education and career pathways.

Nix on Display

Nix is the robot FRC Team 10989 is preparing to compete with at Ramp Riot 2026, the 26th annual robotics competition at Wissahickon High School in Ambler on October 24. At the forum, high school students and adults gathered around Nix while elementary and middle school students worked with smaller robots nearby, giving every age group a hands-on entry point into the world of robotics.

Students Led the Demonstrations

Student leaders Lemuel Xu, Virat Ponugoti, Vivaan Krishna Ponugoti, Mayon Saha, Aaryan, Brady, and Priyanka Paxula led demonstrations, explained the technology behind Nix, and answered questions from visitors throughout the event. Parent volunteers supported the team by handling transportation, logistics, and event operations.

Coach and mentor Hari Ponugoti credited Endress+Hauser sales engineer Luke Xu for connecting BLAST Robotics to the forum. Students also had the opportunity to tour the Endress+Hauser facility, giving them a direct look at how engineering skills translate into professional careers.

Building a Technical Education Pipeline

Keystone STEM Alliance sees events like this as part of a larger effort to build a pathway from early STEM exposure all the way through to career readiness. Beyond BLAST Robotics, the organization operates robotics summer camps and Venturing Crew 181, creating multiple entry points for students at different ages and stages.

Longer-term, KSA plans to develop registered apprenticeship programs and, eventually, a two-year technical school focused on practical skills, industry credentials, and workforce preparation.