For over a decade, Southern California Robotics League Inc has been transforming STEM education by empowering students through competitive robotics, hands-on learning, and expert mentorship. We're not just teaching robotics—we're building the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders.
From humble beginnings to becoming Southern California's premier robotics league
In 2014, a small group of passionate educators and engineers in Southern California recognized a critical need: students were graduating high school without hands-on experience in the STEM fields that would define their future careers. Traditional classroom learning wasn't enough—students needed real-world challenges, teamwork opportunities, and mentorship from industry professionals.
What started with just 10 teams and a handful of dedicated volunteers has grown into a thriving community of 500+ teams, 50+ partner schools, and thousands of students whose lives have been transformed by competitive robotics. Our first competition was held in a high school gymnasium with 30 students; today, our championship events fill convention centers with over 1,000 participants, families, and supporters.
The growth has been remarkable, but our mission remains unchanged: to provide accessible, high-quality STEM education through the excitement and challenge of competitive robotics. Every student who walks through our doors—whether they're a complete beginner or an experienced builder—finds a supportive community ready to help them succeed.
The principles that guide everything we do at SCRL
To empower students across Southern California with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become tomorrow's innovators through accessible, competitive robotics programs that combine hands-on learning, expert mentorship, and real-world STEM applications.
We encourage students to think outside the box, experiment with new ideas, and develop creative solutions to complex challenges. Innovation isn't just about technology—it's a mindset we cultivate.
Theory is important, but practice makes perfect. We believe in learning by doing—building robots, writing code, testing solutions, and iterating based on real results. Every competition is a classroom.
Robotics is a team sport. We teach students to collaborate effectively, communicate clearly, leverage individual strengths, and support each other through challenges and victories.
STEM is for everyone. We actively work to make robotics accessible to students from all backgrounds, providing financial assistance, equipment sharing, and mentorship to ensure no one is left behind.
We set high standards and help students reach them. Through rigorous competition, structured training, and continuous feedback, we develop both technical expertise and the work ethic needed for long-term success.
Beyond individual teams, we're building a supportive community where students, coaches, mentors, and families connect, share knowledge, and celebrate achievements together. Lifelong friendships start here.
Passionate educators, engineers, and community leaders dedicated to student success
Founder & Executive Director
Dr. Martinez founded SCRL in 2014 with a vision to make competitive robotics accessible to all students. With a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford and 20 years of experience in aerospace engineering, he brings both technical expertise and educational passion to the organization.
Under his leadership, SCRL has grown from 10 teams to 500+, securing partnerships with major corporations and establishing scholarship programs that have helped hundreds of students pursue STEM careers. He continues to mentor teams and judge at competitions.
Programs Director
Sarah oversees all educational programs, workshops, and curriculum development at SCRL. With a Master's in Computer Science from UC Berkeley and 15 years of experience in software engineering at Google, she designs programs that bridge academic theory and industry practice.
She's particularly passionate about increasing diversity in STEM, having launched scholarship programs and outreach initiatives that have brought 200+ underrepresented students into robotics. Her "Beginner to Champion" curriculum has been adopted by schools across California.
Competition Director
Michael manages all competition operations, from event logistics to judge training and rule enforcement. With 10 years of experience as a robotics coach and former VEX World Championship referee, he ensures every competition runs smoothly and fairly.
His expertise in game strategy and robot design makes him a sought-after mentor, and he's personally coached three teams to state championship victories. Michael's commitment to sportsmanship and educational value has set the standard for competition excellence at SCRL.
Community Relations Manager
Lisa builds and maintains relationships with schools, sponsors, and community partners. Her background in nonprofit management and 12 years of experience in educational outreach have been instrumental in SCRL's expansion across Southern California.
She's secured over $500,000 in corporate sponsorships, established partnerships with 50+ schools, and created grant programs that have provided equipment and training to underserved communities. Lisa ensures SCRL's impact reaches every corner of the region.
Key milestones in our mission to transform STEM education
SCRL founded with 10 teams and a mission to make robotics education accessible. First competition held at Lincoln High School with 30 students participating.
Reached 50 teams milestone. Launched first annual State Championship. Secured initial corporate sponsorship partnerships with local tech companies.
Surpassed 100 teams. Established partnerships with 25 schools. Launched scholarship program providing financial assistance to 50+ students annually. Introduced mentorship program with industry professionals.
Pivoted to virtual competitions and remote training during pandemic. Developed online resources and video tutorial library. Maintained student engagement despite challenges, proving the resilience of our community.
Reached 500 teams milestone! Hosted largest state championship ever with 150+ teams. Launched equipment sharing program. Partnership with 50+ schools across Southern California.
Celebrating a decade of impact! 2,000+ students trained, 95% college acceptance rate, and stronger than ever. Special anniversary championship and alumni reunion planned. Looking forward to the next 10 years of innovation.
Real results from our commitment to excellence in STEM education
Since 2014
Among participants
In college
To participants
Over 10 years
Improvement in partner schools
Complete legal and registration details for transparency and compliance
| Legal Name | Southern California Robotics League Inc |
| Legal Entity Type | Corporation / 501(c)(3) |
| Founded | 2014 |
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
Physical Address:
9 Buckman Way
Ladera Ranch, CA 92694
United States
Email: help@southerncaliforniaroboticsleague.com
Phone: +1 (726) 251-7352
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM PST
Whether you're a student ready to start your robotics journey, a school looking to enhance your STEM program, or a company wanting to invest in future innovators, there's a place for you in the SCRL community.
Questions? Contact us at help@southerncaliforniaroboticsleague.com