The Robotics Education & Competition Foundation is proud to recognize AFCEA Rocky Mountain Chapter and Pikes Peak Robotics as our 2025 Partners of the Year. These two outstanding organizations exemplify what it means to collaborate with purpose, passion, and a shared commitment to expanding access to STEM education.
AFCEA Rocky Mountain Chapter has distinguished itself among more than 130 global chapters through its deep investment in Colorado’s future STEM leaders. The chapter’s Vice President of Education, Colonel Russ Fellers, said it best: “We believe we are delivering significant educational impact to our community across all ages and demographics.”
That belief is backed by action. In 2025 alone, AFCEA Rocky Mountain Chapter awarded 71 grants totaling over $183,000 to 65 local schools, funding 247 VEX Robotics team registrations across the state. Their largest educational investment continues to be in support of VEX Robotics teams and events. Their sponsorship of the Rocky Mountain Cyberspace Symposium further demonstrates their commitment to engaging students in cutting-edge STEM opportunities.
Their generous support has powered the work of Pikes Peak Robotics, a nonprofit devoted to providing fun, inclusive, and affordable robotics programs to middle and high school students throughout Southern Colorado. Thanks in part to AFCEA’s partnership, Pikes Peak Robotics has delivered incredible results under the leadership of Executive Director and co-founder Nat Sobin and a passionate team that includes Erik Huffman, Amanda Huber, Brad Huber, and Curtis Esch.
Since 2021, the VEX V5 Robotics Competition has grown by 120% statewide in Colorado, and in Southern Colorado alone, participation has more than tripled, with a 250% increase in team numbers—growth directly attributable to the work of Pikes Peak Robotics.
This season, Pikes Peak Robotics supported nearly 300 event registrations across 4 leagues and 7 tournaments, including the third annual AFCEA Pikes Peak V5RC High School Signature Event, cementing the region as a hub for high-quality robotics competition.
Together, AFCEA Rocky Mountain Chapter and Pikes Peak Robotics have created a model of what’s possible when visionary leadership, generous support, and grassroots dedication come together to serve students.
