Varun Vahainambi is experiencing what the robotics community may define as a “full-circuit” moment.

The third-year Brock University Computer Science student is volunteering at the Canada Cup of Robotics – Niagara 2026, reconnecting with the organization that helped spark his passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) as a teen.

Thousands of students, mentors and spectators from more than 30 countries have gathered at Brock and the neighbouring Canada Games Park for the international championship, hosted by the University in partnership with FIRST Robotics Canada from June 14 to 20.

Years before the competition came to Niagara, Vahainambi discovered robotics as a Grade 9 student through his high school’s robotics team. Today, he credits the experience with helping shape his academic and career path.

The first few days of the event featured the FIRST Tech Challenge, which saw participants aged 12 to 18 using their robots to compete in head-to-head challenges. From June 17 to 20, the FIRST LEGO League Challenge will see participants aged nine to 14 design, build, test and program robots using LEGO Education robotics technology.

Beyond the matches themselves, the week includes opportunities to learn more about Brock through educational exhibits and tours as well as team socials and excursions to Niagara Falls and the region.

Third-year Brock University Computer Science student Varun Vahainambi (left) volunteered his time at the FIRST Tech Challenge Provincial Championship held at Brock in February and returned to lend a hand at the ongoing Canada Cup of Robotics. He is pictured with Marie Becotte, Volunteer Co-ordinator and Event Organizer for FIRST Robotics Canada, at the provincial event earlier this year.

Vahainambi hopes the latest group of robotics enthusiasts will find their passion, just as he did.

“I got inspired by how robotics is revitalized around the world — not just in science, but in competition and STEM,” he said.

Vahainambi contributed to his high school robotics team behind the scenes, helping with programming, manufacturing, construction and planning robot controls. The experience aligned with his interest in technology and introduced him to new ways of thinking about science and problem solving.

“What drew me to robotics was seeing the work being done in programming, design and manufacturing,” he said. “It gave me a new perspective on what the science field is all about.”

Those experiences ultimately led him to pursue a Bachelor of Computer Science at Brock.

Today, he is completing his second co-op placement as a UI/UX designer with a technology startup, building skills first developed through robotics.

In addition to volunteering at the Canada Cup of Robotics this week, Vahainambi has lent a hand at other FIRST Robotics Canada events, including the provincial championship held at Brock earlier this year.

Beyond the technical skills, robotics taught Vahainambi collaboration, communication, adaptability and confidence.

“Getting involved helped me to meet new people, learn new skills and broaden my network,” he said. “I learned how to collaborate effectively and apply what I’ve learned in new settings.”

As the competition continues, organizers say the championship will showcase the power of hands-on STEM learning and international collaboration.

“The privilege of hosting the Canada Cup of Robotics is an extraordinary opportunity to inspire the next generations of scientists, engineers and creative thinkers,” said Peter Berg, Dean of Brock’s Faculty of Mathematics and Science.

Watch the Canada Cup of Robotics online on the FIRST Robotics Canada website.