Lego Spike Robotics

Unlock the world of robotics in our exciting 5-session program designed for kids grades 3-8. Join us for one session or all five!

Each session introduces a new robotics concept through hands-on exploration and creative problem-solving. Students will dive into the world of robotics by building and programming robots using LEGO® Education SPIKE™, where imagination meets engineering. Unless otherwise noted, LEGO SPIKE will be the primary platform used. Whether students are new to robotics or ready to level up, each workshop offers a fresh opportunity to build, code, and innovate.

Join us to ignite your passion for robotics, explore new concepts, and make new friends in an engaging and supportive environment. Get ready to build, program, and have fun with LEGO Spike!

Any questions or concerns can be directed to education@whitakercenter.org.

Dates and Times

Lego Spike Robotics occurs monthly on Sunday afternoons from 1-3PM, October through February, in the STEM Design Studios in Lab A.

Registration

Tickets are $8 per member or $12 per non-member — per student, per workshop! Visit the Box Office the day of the workshop to add on a ticket to the Science Center.

Please Note: Science Center exploration is NOT included in the price of your workshop. Attendees may purchase a discounted ticket to the UPMC Science Center or the Select Medical Digital Cinema for the day of their workshop at our box office.
Discounted tickets for UPMC Science Center are $10.
Discounted tickets for Select Medical Digital Cinema are $6.

Plan Ahead & Secure Your Spot! We’re thrilled to offer engaging programs at the Science Center—and we want to make sure you don’t miss out! To help us prepare and ensure the best experience for everyone, we kindly ask that tickets be purchased in advance.

Please note: Programs require a minimum number of participants. If minimum enrollment is not met, we will notify participants two days before the scheduled date that the program is canceled. Early registration helps us keep these opportunities available! Consider adding a ticket for a friend or sibling!

Register Here

2025-2026 WORKSHOP TOPICS

Out of Order
Oct. 19

Practice your coding skills by debugging a pre-made machine. First build a cart to haul around objects, then change the code it runs on to improve its design.

Hopper Race
Nov. 16

Learn about the engineering design process and how limitations can inspire creativity. Design multiple prototypes to find the most effective way to move a robot without using wheels.

Keep It Safe
Dec. 21

Create a safe deposit box to keep all your valuables and learn about conditional statements to create a combination lock for security! Please note, this session is in the PNC Innovation Zone!

Bionic Blocks
Jan. 17

Test the efficiency of two different grabber designs and study what makes them different, then design your own to complete challenges.

Robot Racing
Feb. 21

Build an Automated Driving Base and make precise and controlled movements using code. Practice designing for real Lego Robotics competitions by adding elements to your robot and teaching it to follow instructions by itself.