Blast Robotics Earns Rising All-Star Award at Philadelphia Event
Blast Robotics, a Berwyn-based student robotics team, continued its impressive rookie season by earning the Rising All-Star Award at the FIRST Mid-Atlantic District Philadelphia Event. This recognition highlights the team’s rapid growth and expanding impact in STEM education.
The competition, held from April 2 to April 4 at Abraham Lincoln High School, brought together robotics teams from across the region for a dynamic event centered on engineering, teamwork, and innovation. Among a strong field of competitors, Blast Robotics stood out as an emerging program, building momentum both on and off the competition floor.
The competition, held from April 2 to April 4 at Abraham Lincoln High School, brought together robotics teams from across the region for a dynamic event centered on engineering, teamwork, and innovation. Among a strong field of competitors, Blast Robotics stood out as an emerging program, building momentum both on and off the competition floor.
In just six months, the student-led team—operating under Keystone STEM Alliance Inc.—has grown to 35 members. The team has established a strong culture focused on technical excellence, leadership development, and meaningful community outreach. The Rising All-Star Award recognizes teams that demonstrate early success while showing strong potential for long-term impact within the FIRST Robotics Competition.
“We are incredibly proud of what this team has accomplished in such a short time,” said student leaders Vivaan Krishna and Virat Ponugoti. “Winning this award in Philadelphia is a testament to our team’s resilience and the strong support from our mentors and community.”
Coach Glenn Baker also praised the team’s dedication and growth throughout its first season.
“I want to congratulate the young adults of Blast Robotics,” Baker said. “For a ‘year 0 team,’ your autonomy, effort, and teamwork exceeded expectations, and you have built a strong foundation for future success.”
Beyond competition, Blast Robotics has made a significant impact through outreach initiatives, reaching more than 300 students via STEM programs, summer camps, and community demonstrations. These efforts have strengthened the team’s presence while contributing to a collaborative and energetic competition environment.
Team leaders credited their success to the continued support of Keystone STEM Alliance Inc. and key partners, including Eadeh Enterprises, Comcast, the Department of Defense STEM Program, NASA, and Isolite Corporation. These partnerships have provided vital resources, mentorship, and opportunities for students to grow and succeed.
With two major awards in its inaugural season and continued expansion underway, Blast Robotics is already looking ahead to future competitions—focused on strengthening its program and broadening its impact in STEM education. Learn more about our Awards, Media to see how we empower students.