Premium STEM & Robotics Camps in Portland, OR
At Portland Innovation Lab, we are dedicated to providing a fun and educational environment for kids to explore robotics, engineering design, and programming. Our programs aim to inspire creativity and innovation in a hands-on learning setting.
Meet the Founder: John Sperry
Award-Winning Robotics Coach & STEM Educator
With over 20 years of experience as an engineering and computer science teacher, John Sperry designs elite programs that transform how students look at technology. He is a premier figure in competitive youth robotics, having coached championship-level teams across VEX, BEST, FLL, FTC, and FRC programs.
John’s career is defined by building high-impact learning environments from the ground up:
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Distinguished Mentor: Winner of the prestigious Woodie Flowers Award (2017), recognizing top-tier leadership in FIRST Robotics.
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Program Builder: Founded the Austin ISD Applied Technologies Center, creating 4-year engineering and computer science pathways for over 500 students.
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Community Catalyst: Hosted 30+ STEM summer camps, organized 50+ robotics competitions, and secured millions in funding to advance engineering education.
"Robotics is a sport of the mind where every single student can go pro." — John Sperry
Our Premium Campus Location: Reed College
Portland Innovation Lab camps are held in the state-of-the-art Performing Arts Building at Reed College.
Alongside high-level skill-building and making new friends, students get the unique opportunity to experience life on a prestigious university campus. From exploring Reed's beautiful green spaces to working in modern facilities, the entire experience gives young innovators an inspiring, firsthand glimpse into their future academic potential.
Robotics Camps
Course Description:
Get ready for the ultimate robotics face-off! At the VEX Robotics Camp, you'll dive into the world of engineering and innovation as you design, build, and compete with your very own robot. Start from the ground up—equipped with goggles and grit—as you transform your ideas into a fully functional bot, following real competition standards. You'll brainstorm, prototype, and fine-tune every detail until your creation is competition-ready. Then, take it to the arena and compete in thrilling challenges that lead up to a full-scale VEX-style tournament. Do you have what it takes to dominate the competition and claim victory? Let the games begin!
Prerequisite:
Ability to work in a team.
In this course, you will:
- Build a custom robot with VEX V5 hardware
- Learn how the pros build VEX robotics champions
- Explore mechanical engineering principles
- Compete in a VEX Competition-style tournament
Engineering Camps
Course Description:
Gear up for the ultimate engineering adventure! At the Engineering Camp, you'll step into the world of design, problem-solving, and hands-on innovation as you engineer your own high-performance creation. From the first sketch to the final build, you'll tackle real-world engineering challenges—learning how to think critically, collaborate, and adapt your ideas into a fully functioning machine. Using industry-inspired standards, you’ll prototype, test, and refine your design until it’s optimized for performance. Then, put your engineering skills to the test in a series of dynamic challenges, like bridge design, creating electronic devices, and 3D printing. Ready to design, build, and rise to the top? Let the challenge begin!
Prerequisite:
Ability to work in a team.
In this course, you will:
- Learn computer-aided design
- Learn how to 3D print designed objects
- Learn structural engineering concepts bridge design challenge
- Learn electronics and programming with Arduino microcontrollers
What Portland Parents Are Saying
"My son absolutely loved the robotics and engineering camp! He came home every day excited to show us what he built, and his confidence in problem-solving has skyrocketed!"
"The camp was the perfect mix of learning and fun! My son developed teamwork skills, creativity, and a real love for engineering."
"I was amazed at how much my child learned in just a few weeks! The hands-on projects kept him engaged, and he’s already asking to sign up for next year!"
"My child thrived in this program! He learned to think critically, solve problems, and build amazing robots—all while having a blast!"
"The instructors were fantastic—so patient and encouraging! My daughter gained valuable STEM skills while making great friends along the way."