GEARED UP Mentor Conference: Full Schedule

Welcome to GEARED UP 2026: Mentor Conference! Join us at James Madison University’s Festival Conference & Student Center in Harrisonburg, VA, for two days of learning, connection, and community.

You power 10,000+ students across DC, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. This day is built for YOU. Whether you’re a rookie coach launching your first team or a 20-year veteran looking for fresh ideas, you’ll find sessions, workshops, and conversations designed to sharpen your skills and recharge your passion.

Proudly presented by Aramco Americas. See you in Harrisonburg.

arrow_back View All Dates

10:15am EDT

FTC Academy: Start Here - What it is, why it matters, and how to get your team in.

Saturday August 8, 2026 10:15am - 11:00am EDT

Conf Room 2 (35) Curriculum @ 1301 Carrier Drive, Harrisonburg, VA 22807

An introduction to FTC Academy: what it is, why it matters, and how teams and coaches can get involved. Designed for FTC coaches who know the program exists but have not yet engaged with it, broadening the FTC track beyond technical topics.

Speakers

Shelly Stoddard

Vice President, FIRST Chesapeake

Exhibitors

FIRST

FIRST is More Than Robots®Founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen, FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a global nonprofit (501(c)(3)) organization that prepares young people for the future through a suite of inclusive, team-based robotics programs for ages 4-18 (PreK-12). Our programs are suitable for schools or structured... Read More →

Saturday August 8, 2026 10:15am - 11:00am EDT
Conf Room 2 (35) Curriculum 1301 Carrier Drive, Harrisonburg, VA 22807

Curriculum, Presentation