About CARAT
Canadian Association for Robotics, AI & Technology.
CARAT is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing high-quality STEM education to young people through robotics, artificial intelligence, and hands-on technology projects. We connect students, schools, and mentors to meaningful learning experiences that prepare them for the future.
Who we are
CARAT brings together educators, engineers, parents, and community partners who believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to explore robotics, AI, and technology in a supportive, challenging, and inspiring environment.
We design programs that meet students where they are—whether they are building their first robot, preparing for competitions, or diving deeper into advanced engineering and programming.
Our story
CARAT began with a simple idea: students learn best when they are given real tools, real challenges, and real responsibility. What started as a small robotics program has grown into a broader initiative that supports multiple competition teams, school partnerships, and community events.
Today, we continue to expand our impact by developing curricula, training mentors, and creating pathways for students to grow from early exploration to advanced robotics and AI projects.
Milestones
- Founding: Launch of the first robotics programs under the CARAT umbrella.
- Competition teams: Formation of CARTLAB FRC and VEX teams to compete at regional events.
- School partnerships: Collaboration with local schools to offer after-school robotics and STEM clubs.
- RobotBattle: Creation of our own student-centered competition to welcome new teams into robotics.
- Expansion: Continued growth in programs, mentors, and community partners supporting students in robotics and AI.
What we do in practice
Programs for students
Robotics clubs, camps, and competition teams that help students build technical skills, resilience, and confidence through hands-on projects.
Support for schools
Curriculum design, teacher training, and competition guidance that help schools build sustainable STEM and robotics programs.
Events & competitions
Hosting and supporting events like RobotBattle, VEX, and FRC-related activities that bring the STEM community together.
Our values
Student-centered learning
Students lead the work. Adults provide mentorship, safety, and support, but students build, code, and make key decisions.
Equity & access
We work to reduce barriers so that students from diverse backgrounds can participate in robotics and technology.
Excellence & integrity
We encourage students to aim high while emphasizing fair play, safety, and respect for teammates and opponents.
Collaboration & community
We believe the best learning happens in teams and within supportive communities that share knowledge and celebrate effort.
Leadership & mentors
Our programs are led by a mix of experienced educators, engineers, alumni, and community volunteers who share a passion for robotics and STEM education.
Program leadership
Coordinates overall strategy, safety, and program quality across robotics, AI, and technology offerings.
Coaches & mentors
Work directly with students on design, coding, testing, and competition preparation, while modeling teamwork and professionalism.
Community partners
Schools, organizations, and sponsors who support our events, provide space, resources, and real-world connections for students.
Want to collaborate with CARAT?
We are always looking for new partners, mentors, and schools who share our passion for robotics, AI, and STEM education.