Who We Are

The Technobotics Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring youth through hands-on robotics and STEM experiences. Based in Northwest Arkansas, we create welcoming spaces for kids and teens to build, code, create, and collaborate—while gaining confidence, critical thinking skills, and a sense of belonging.

Officially founded in 2023, the Technobotics Foundation builds on over a decade of grassroots impact through the original Technobotics 4-H program, which began in 2012.

Our Story

It started at a kitchen table in 2012, when Karl Kay’s 12-year-old wanted to be part of a team—but didn’t see a place in traditional sports. So the family launched a single robotics team through FIRST LEGO League, and something clicked. The program quickly became a hub for creativity, teamwork, and possibility—especially for kids who hadn’t always felt like they fit in elsewhere.

What began as one team grew into a full-scale community effort, supporting K–12 students across Northwest Arkansas through after-school programs, competitions, and camps. In 2023, the Technobotics Foundation was formed to expand that impact, deepen community partnerships, and ensure long-term sustainability.

What We Do

We empower learners of all ages through:

  • Robotics teams (FIRST LEGO League, SeaPerch, and others)

  • STEM-focused camps and workshops

  • Mentorship and leadership development

  • Family engagement and volunteer pathways

  • Hands-on problem-solving rooted in real-world challenges

Our programs are built for kids from all backgrounds—especially those who may not have access to traditional STEM or enrichment programs. We meet learners where they are and help them grow through joyful, hands-on exploration.

Our Vision

We believe every child deserves the chance to discover their strengths, explore new possibilities, and feel like they belong. Through robotics and community-centered learning, we're building a future where all kids can thrive.

Meet the Team

  • Kimberly Kay

    Kimberly Kay is a passionate leader in informal education and youth development, blending creativity, business strategy, and heart in all she does. She currently serves as the Retail Manager at the Scott Family Amazeum, where she oversees retail operations, birthday experiences, and food service—all while fostering guest engagement and championing inclusive, play-based learning.

    Kimberly got her start in robotics in 2012 when her parents launched a FIRST LEGO League (FLL) team that she helped coach. That spark lit a fire. Over a decade later, she continues to create space for young people to explore robotics, engineering, and design through Technobotics 4-H, the youth robotics program she founded. The program now serves K–12 students and is grounded in her core belief that every child deserves access to hands-on STEM experiences, no matter their background.

    Kimberly is also pursuing her Executive MBA at the University of Arkansas, where she focuses on innovation, entrepreneurship, and community-driven leadership. Raised in a large, diverse family, she brings empathy, curiosity, and a deep commitment to equity into every role she plays—as a mentor, museum professional, and change-maker.

  • Karl Kay

    Karl Kay is a dedicated mentor, community leader, and champion of youth development through STEM. By day, he serves as a Group Director at Walmart, where he leads with a focus on innovation, systems thinking, and collaboration. But his most meaningful work started at the kitchen table—when his oldest child was 12 and looking for a way to connect, build skills, and be part of a team outside of sports.

    That moment sparked the beginning of Technobotics 4-H. What started as a single FIRST LEGO League team quickly grew into a movement—anchored in Karl’s belief that every child deserves a place to belong, to be challenged, and to grow through teamwork. Karl has coached and mentored dozens of students over the years, modeling patience, problem-solving, and perseverance along the way.

    He brings a servant leadership style, a deep commitment to equity and access, and a whole lot of heart to the program. Whether he’s troubleshooting robots or cheering from the sidelines at a scrimmage, Karl is there to ensure that every kid feels seen, capable, and proud of what they’ve built—together.