CRI
Chicago, IL – July 22, 2025 – Team 24Karat, based in Aurora, Ohio, earned top recognition this weekend at the 2025 Chicago Robotics Invitational, securing a prestigious spot as a Bridge Builders finalist for their outstanding performance in community outreach and collaboration.
Hosted at Francis W. Parker School in Chicago on July 19–20, the Invitational attracted elite FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) teams from across North America and beyond. Designed as a high-stakes, developmental competition, CRI challenges teams with larger fields, tougher game elements, and more intense competition than typical FTC events
24Karat, a fifth‑year FTC team with students in grades 8–12 from the Aurora area and part of KSS Robotics, has earned a reputation for excellence, both with their robots and their community engagement
. The team’s commitment to STEM outreach and mentorship stood out emphatically on the Chicago stage.
The Bridge Builders award recognizes teams that forge meaningful partnerships across schools, communities, and organizations—all while promoting STEM and mutual learning. As finalists, Team 24Karat was honored for their sustained outreach efforts and mentorship of younger teams
“Our passion for robotics is matched by our dedication to uplifting others,” said a representative of Team 24Karat. “Being named a Bridge Builders finalist affirms that collaboration and community are as important as competition.”
The team now looks forward to upcoming competitions, including the FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship, for which they previously earned the Inspire Award at the Ohio state level
At CRI, teams participated in rigorous qualification rounds, workshops, judging sessions, and evening socials. Judges evaluated not only robot performance, but also team communication, game strategy, pit management, and community-oriented initiatives.
Looking Ahead
Back in Northeast Ohio, the team will continue refining their robot and community projects in preparation for the upcoming FTC World Championship. “We remain committed to expanding mentorship programs alongside local schools and youth groups” noted a member of the team . With the Bridge Builders recognition, 24Karat’s influence extends well beyond robotics—as a model of STEM-driven leadership and partnership.