Young Engineers Association supports student robotics teams and STEM programs across Colorado — giving young people the tools, mentorship, and community to thrive.
At Young Engineers Association (YEA), our mission is to foster innovation, leadership, and inclusion in K-12 students through hands-on engaging STEAM experiences. By integrating FIRST programs, we are preparing a diverse student body to thrive as compassionate and creative leaders.
We are dedicated to providing K-12 students — particularly those from underrepresented groups in STEAM — access to enriching educational opportunities that foster curiosity, creativity, and a passion for science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. Our programs emphasize diversity and inclusion, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has the support and resources needed to succeed.
We ensure every student — regardless of background — has access to the support and resources needed to participate and thrive in STEAM.
Through FIRST Lego League, FIRST Tech Challenge, and FIRST Robotics Competition, students gain dynamic team-based learning experiences that build both technical and life skills.
Beyond engineering, we develop leadership, teamwork, entrepreneurship, and time management — equipping students to become innovative thinkers and compassionate leaders.
YEA is committed to a non-discriminatory, inclusive environment for all students, mentors, and volunteers, and is fully compliant with the FIRST Youth Protection Policy.
Five competitive robotics teams, one community. Our FIRST Robotics Competition and FIRST Tech Challenge teams push the boundaries of what student engineers can achieve.
A powerhouse FRC team with years of competitive experience, the Kraken bring innovation and precision to every build season.
Visit team siteThe Chargers are a rising FRC team from Chatfield, building their legacy season by season with determination and ingenuity.
Visit team siteThe Squid Squad dives deep into every challenge, bringing teamwork and creativity to the FIRST Tech Challenge arena.
Visit team siteOcto-Pi combines sharp programming skills with eight-armed ingenuity, tackling FTC challenges with precision and flair.
Visit team siteYEA operates two distinct programs — one supporting affiliated robotics teams with financial infrastructure, and one focused on grant-funded K-12 STEM outreach across Colorado.
YEA offers FIRST teams in Colorado the ability to hold program funds in a YEA-managed bank account and receive a dedicated debit card for program expenses. This service allows teams to benefit from YEA's 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, financial infrastructure, and administrative support — removing barriers so teams can focus on what matters most: the students.
Our affiliated teams — including The Kraken, The Chargers, Squid Squad, and Octo-Pi — are all part of this program. Meet our teams →
The Keystone Project is YEA's grant outreach program, focused on supporting K-12 STEM education across Colorado — primarily through robotics. The Empowering Future Innovators initiative expands access for students from underrepresented communities through community outreach events, funding for robotics teams, mentorship and coaching, and hosting competitions.
Every student deserves access to STEAM — regardless of background, school, or zip code. See upcoming events →
We welcome anyone who wants to make a difference — no matter your background or skillset. Whether you're an engineer, a parent, a business professional, or simply passionate about supporting young people, there's a place for you. Get in touch →
Are you a K-12 student in Colorado ready to build robots, write code, and compete? YEA supports four FIRST robotics teams across FRC and FTC — there's a place for builders, programmers, designers, and leaders alike. No experience necessary, just curiosity and drive. Meet our teams →
Your donation fuels robotics competitions, STEM programs, and student mentorship. Every dollar directly supports a young engineer's journey.
Donate Now →Young Engineers Association is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Donations are tax-deductible.
Whether you want to volunteer, sponsor a team, or learn more about our programs — reach out and we'll get back to you.
Colorado, United States
We welcome anyone who wants to make a difference — no matter your background or skillset. Whether you're an engineer, a parent, a business professional, or simply passionate about supporting young people, there's a place for you on our teams.