BEST stands for Boosting Engineering, Science, and Technology. It is a middle and high school robotics competition designed to make engineering more accessible and engaging for students. The program operates as a non-profit, volunteer-based organization that challenges teams to design, build, and market robots to perform tasks related to a central theme. These themes often reflect real-world engineering challenges.
The significance of this program lies in its ability to ignite students’ passion for STEM fields. By participating, students gain hands-on experience in problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking. The experience can influence career choices and provide invaluable skills applicable beyond engineering, such as communication, project management, and leadership. Historically, the program emerged as a response to the perceived decline of American students pursuing STEM careers, aiming to revitalize interest and foster a new generation of innovators.
