ABOUT US

Empowering Innovators,

Building Tomorrow's Leaders

Mission

The Caribbean Robotics Academy (CRA) is dedicated to transforming communities across Puerto Rico and the Caribbean by providing hands-on, robotics-based learning experiences that ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM). Through inclusive education and mentorship, CRA aims to empower youth and adults alike, fostering innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to build a resilient and dynamic future workforce equipped to meet the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing world.

Vision

To cultivate a future where every student in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean values teamwork, embraces learning from failures, demonstrates perseverance, and achieves success. We are committed to providing opportunities that spark curiosity, inspire innovation, and empower students through cutting-edge technology and hands-on learning experiences.

Core Values

Group Creativity

Group creativity is a symphony of diverse minds coming together to compose something extraordinary. We celebrate the power of collaboration, where innovative ideas flourish, and unconventional solutions take shape. Our teams blend technical expertise with artistic flair, designing robots that defy expectations.

Passion

Passion is the heartbeat of our community, a fervent energy that drives us forward. It’s the spark that ignites creativity, fuels brainstorming sessions, and propels us through challenges. We believe that passion is contagious, it spreads from one team member to another, inspiring innovation and dedication.

Leadership

Leadership it’s a mindset that empowers individuals to inspire, guide, and elevate others. We cultivate leadership through mentorship, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous learning. Our student leaders not only excel in technical skills but also foster a supportive environment where everyone’s voice is heard.

Teamwork

Teamwork is the lifeblood of our community, the dynamic of collaboration, shared goals, and mutual support. We believe that together, we achieve more than any individual could alone. Our teams work in harmony, combining diverse talents, perspectives, and skills to build remarkable robots.

Problem Solving

Problem solving is our compass, guiding us through the intricate maze of challenges. We embrace problems as opportunities, each one a chance to innovate, iterate, and learn. We celebrate the “aha” moments, the late-night brainstorming sessions, and the joy of overcoming obstacles together.

Code of Conduct

The Caribbean Robotics Academy (C.R.A.) and its founders are official event partners of the Robotics Education and Competition Foundation, adhering to its Code of Conduct. This code emphasizes the importance of positive, respectful, and ethical behavior from all students, teachers, mentors, parents, and other event attendees, making it an essential component of all our events.

Robot Events

Robot Events is operated by the Robotics Education and Competition Foundation to help support robotics and other STEM activities that aim to inspire and motivate students. Robot Events is a community website that provides event promotion and professional online registration for STEM events. The site helps the two main groups who make all of these programs possible: teams (schools, students, teachers, mentors, parents) and event organizers (local groups and volunteers).

CRA Board of Directors

The Caribbean Robotics Academy board of directors is composed of respected individuals, each of whom has participated in our organization programs as a coach, event partner, judge, or parent. Each member brings a wealth of expertise and experience to help propel the organization's mission to empower educators to inspire and equip students for success.

With backgrounds spanning education, technology, and business, our board members are committed to fostering innovation and excellence in robotics education. Their collective leadership guides our organization in fulfilling its vision of empowering students through comprehensive programs encompassing competitions, education, and workforce readiness.

The Caribbean Robotics Academy Board of Directors includes:

Pedro Alvarado – CEO, Caribbean Robotics Academy
Pedro Alvarado is one of the founders and the Chief Executive Officer of the Caribbean Robotics Academy. He has over 10 years of engineering experience, solving complex problems in the software, electrical, and mechanical fields. With more than 15 years of experience in robotics education and VEX Robotics educational competition events development, Pedro has been a driving force in the robotics community. While founding the Caribbean Robotics Academy, Pedro has worked in the Process Development Department of the american multinational biopharmaceutical company Amgen.

Stephanie Quiles – Project Engineer II in Artemis Mission at Collins Aerospace
Stephanie Quiles is a multifaceted professional excelling as an engineer, model, TV host, actress, musician, and advocate for women in STEAM. Stephanie’s career includes roles at General Electric, NASA, and Lilly del Caribe, and she currently supports various space systems missions in the aerospace industry. In 2020, Stephanie founded Beauty + Brains (B+B), a non-profit organization empowering girls and women in STEM through educational workshops and promoting diversity, inclusion, and equity. Her diverse talents and commitment to advocacy make her a remarkable role model for young women aspiring to enter STEAM fields.

Luis Cañuelas – STEM Educational Consultant at Betances Professional Services
Luis Cañuelas is a dedicated professional with a strong background in education and administration. He has served in various capacities within the Puerto Rico Department of Education, contributing significantly to the development and implementation of educational policies and programs. Luis is known for his commitment to improve and enhance the quality of education and ensuring equitable access for all students. His passion for education and his unwavering commitment to making a difference have earned him respect and admiration from colleagues and community members alike.

Manuel Rosado – Robotics & Process Engineer at Amgen
Manuel Rosado is a highly accomplished professional in robotics and education, currently working as a Process Engineer at Amgen. Co-founding the VEX Robotics Students Organization at Johnson & Wales University, Manuel has guided the team to compete at the World Championship level. He has also led the VEX Robotics team at the Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico to numerous successes. His dedication to mentoring and inspiring students in STEM fields is evident through his leadership and numerous accolades. Manuel’s passion for robotics continues to drive his efforts to enhance educational opportunities and promote innovation among young people.