MAY 24TH

SAVE THE DATE 2026

Ottawa Robotics
Competition

Grades 4–12 | Autonomous Robotics Challenges

ABOUT THE EVENT

Inspiring Innovators for Decades

The IEEE Ottawa Robotics Competition (ORC) is a flagship STEM initiative led by volunteers since 2003. It encourages students from Grades 4 to 12 to design, build, and program autonomous robots using LEGO® Mindstorms or Arduino-based systems to tackle real engineering challenges.

Why Students Should Participate

Hands-on Engineering

Participants apply theory to mechanical design and programming logic, mirroring real-world projects.

Teamwork & Leadership

Teams develop collaboration and leadership skills while learning to present and defend their ideas.

Early STEM Exposure

ORC introduces fields like robotics, AI, and automation, helping explore potential career paths early.

Problem-Solving

Students learn to iterate, test, fail, and improve—exactly how innovation happens in the real world.

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Benefits Beyond the Competition

The impact of ORC extends well beyond the event day:

Stronger academic performance in STEM through applied learning.
Enhanced university applications with meaningful experience.
Professional mindset development and technical communication.
Networking opportunities with engineers and industry mentors.

A Launchpad for Future Innovators

Whether you are a beginner or an aspiring engineer, ORC is your chance to build, compete, and discover your potential.

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

IEEE ORC 2026 Prizes

Excellence deserves recognition. Battle it out across our challenge tracks to secure top honors, cash rewards, and official medals.

2ND PLACE

$200

CASH REWARD

Official Silver Medal
Finalist Certificate
Sponsor Recognition

CHAMPION PRIZE

1ST PLACE

$400

CASH REWARD

Official Gold Medal
Champion Certificate
Sponsor Recognition

3RD PLACE

MEDAL

HONORARY AWARD

Official Bronze Medal
Finalist Certificate
Sponsor Recognition

Registration Closed

We have reached maximum team capacity for ORC 2026. Join us as a spectator on May 24th!

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

2026 IEEE Ottawa Robotics Competition

8:00 AM

Doors Open & Practice

9:00 AM

Opening Ceremony

9:15 AM
Team Interviews

10:00 AM

Morning Tournaments

12:00 PM
Lunch Break (Pre-paid Pizza) 🍕

1:00 PM

Afternoon Events & Final Rounds

3:30 PM
Closing & Awards Ceremony

PREPARATION

Technical Interviews

All teams must participate in a technical interview. Download the resources below to prepare your engineering notebook and practice your presentation.