Cheshire Robotics Explorers

About Us

We are a part of FIRST LEGO League global robotics community and initiative. FIRST | For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology 

Cheshire Robotics Explorers Foundation Inc. prepares young people for the future through a suite of life-changing youth robotics programs that build critical skills, confidence, and resilience. We are dedicated to engaging students across New Haven County and all Connecticut in robotics-related activities that spark curiosity, inspire innovation, and foster a lifelong love of learning.

Our organization focuses on advancing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education by providing hands-on workshops, after-school programs, and competition preparation. We are especially passionate about reaching K–12 students in public schools—empowering them through project-based learning and team-based problem-solving. Through these experiences, students gain not only technical skills in coding and engineering, but also vital life skills such as collaboration, communication, and perseverance.

Our ultimate goal is to make robotics and technology education accessible and exciting for all students—building a stronger, more innovative community, one robot at a time.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to inspire and empower youth through hands-on learning in robotics, engineering, and the arts. We aim to make high-quality STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education accessible to all children by offering engaging, team-based programs that foster creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and confidence.

Vision Statement

Our vision is a future where every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to become a leader and innovator in science and technology. We envision a world where early exposure to robotics and STEAM disciplines opens doors to lifelong learning, career exploration, and community impact.

1. Robotics Workshops

We offer hands-on robotics workshops using LEGO® SPIKE™ Prime and other STEAM tools. Students learn mechanical design, block-based programming, sensor integration, and teamwork. Workshops are offered in 8–20 week sessions and are tailored by age group (Grades K–1, 2–3, 4–5).

2. FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Team Participation

Our nonprofit sponsors multiple FIRST LEGO League Challenge teams for students in Grades 4–5. These teams design, build, and program robots to complete real-world missions while learning about each season’s global theme. Students develop core values including innovation, impact, discovery, and inclusion.

3. Field Trips & STEAM Exploration

We provide enrichment through STEAM-focused field trips (e.g., Dinosaur State Park, science museums, university labs). These trips connect in-class learning with real-world applications, e.g. in archaeology, engineering, and environmental science.

4. STEAM in the Community / Outreach Events

Our students participate in outreach events, community demos, and family nights to share their learning and engage younger students. These events help us spark interest in STEAM at an early age while building leadership in our older students.

Board Member List:

Name - Liliya Carlage

Title/Role - President & Founder

Background - Finance/Investment Management Consultant; STEAM advocate; youth robotics mentor

Mentors and Coaches

FLL Lead Coaches:

• Liliya Carlage

• Jason Carlage

Teams Mentors:

• Techno Huskies CRE:
  
  Manjusha Harimadhavan

Lekhan Nair

Lisa Terray

Past Accomplishments

Since our founding, Cheshire Robotics Explorers Foundation Inc. has:

• Launched multiple FIRST LEGO League teams, serving over 40 students in grades pre-K –5 each season

• Held free and low-cost robotics workshops for elementary students across Cheshire, Meriden, Prospect and New Haven

• Organized STEAM field trips to science museums, nature centers, and state parks to enhance experiential learning

• Operated STEAM camps. One session’s theme was inspired by adventure parks, with projects built and coded to recreate an elaborate amusement park. For another, the teams explored space to learn about the universe and our galaxy, the Milky Way.

• Built a diverse, student-centered team culture, where students collaborate, troubleshoot, and present their ideas with pride
  
  
  

Awards:

2023-24 FIRST LEGO League (FLL) season called MASTERPIECE, focusing on the intersection of art and technology:

1. Cheshire Robotics Explorers team: Coding Connoisseur Award.
   
   

2024-25 FIRST LEGO League (FLL) season titled "SUBMERGED", focusing on exploring the world's oceans.

1. Explorer Team, CRE Dolphins: Poseidon's Power Award.

2. Explorer Team, CRE Oceanographers: Shores of Gracious Professionalism. 

3. Pre-rookie CRE Challenge Team: 1st Place Robot at Tolland County Robotics Rumble.