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published April 18, 2010
Teaching Skills through Robotics
Bob Woodley
Youth Program
Bob Woodley is a pretty tech-savvy guy. “Believe it or not, I first learned about Breakthrough by following Arloa Sutter on Twitter!” After a bit of dialogue with some of Breakthrough’s staff, Bob knew exactly where he could use his skills: working with the Breakthrough youth to develop a Computer Club.
This past summer, along with his colleague Carlos Orellana, Bob created the Computer Club. Originally, the Club did a few sessions on using digital cameras and Adobe Photoshop Elements. It was wonderful, and the kids loved it, but Bob was hopeful for more: a Robotics Club.
“It’s very simple: as someone who has probably interviewed close to 1,000 candidates for programming jobs, I know that the job market for programming skills is robust. I also know that it’s not hard to learn the basics of programming, and middle school children are particularly well-suited by temperament to get excited by the topic and absorb the material.” Most children just need the resources and support, the very thing Bob was looking to do. “It’s so unfair that access to hardware and skilled mentors is lacking in some neighborhoods because it severely limits job opportunities later.”
“Bob’s idea of introducing young kids to robotics and computer programming fits so nicely with our theory of ministry—which is building skills and networks of opportunity,” said Marcie Curry, Director of Youth and Family Services. “The kids are being introduced to a booming career field, a group of committed and caring volunteers and having a great time while doing it. We so appreciate Bob’s commitment to the kids and his belief in their abilities.”