Louisiana 4-H SeaPerch builds workforce-ready STEM skills through experiential robotics learning

An underwater remotely operated vehicle, or ROV, runs though one of its underwater challenges at the SeaPerch regional competition hosted by Louisiana 4-H.

Louisiana 4-H SeaPerch builds workforce-ready STEM skills through experiential robotics learning

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities , , , , , , , ,

Preparing youth for tomorrow’s workforce is critical as STEM occupations are projected to grow 10.8% nationwide between 2022 and 2032. In Louisiana, demand for skilled engineers and technicians continues to rise in energy, coastal restoration and advanced manufacturing sectors. To address this need, Louisiana 4-H implemented the SeaPerch underwater robotics program to expand access to hands-on STEM learning and strengthen early career pathways in engineering and technology. 

Through partnerships with RoboNation and the LSU College of Engineering, Louisiana 4-H trained 49 Extension agents and volunteers to deliver SeaPerch programming statewide. Each trained site received free robotics kits to support local teams, significantly increasing program accessibility. The Louisiana SeaPerch Challenge, held at the COLA Pool in Lafayette, brought together 115 youth competitors representing 31 teams from 10 parishes. Students demonstrated technical proficiency and teamwork through timed underwater navigation challenges and design presentations. Collaborative partnerships were strengthened with COLA, Louisiana STEM Regions, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and LSU, expanding the program’s reach and infrastructure. 

Program growth has been substantial. State competition participation increased by 35% from the previous year, while an additional 15 Louisiana 4-H teams competed at regional qualifiers. Over three years, total teams expanded from 7 to 46 (343%), youth participation increased from 31 to 167 (439%), and parish involvement grew from 5 to 12 (140%). Participants developed critical workforce skills including soldering, buoyancy control, propulsion system design, problem-solving and collaborative leadership. Louisiana teams also achieved national recognition, earning invitations to international competition and securing a second-place finish in the Technical Design Report category in 2024. 

As a result of demonstrated success, RoboNation extended a formal partnership agreement with Louisiana 4-H, and new industry funding was awarded to support continued expansion. By integrating experiential robotics education with strong university and industry partnerships, Louisiana 4-H SeaPerch is building a sustainable STEM pipeline that equips youth with the technical and professional skills needed to strengthen Louisiana’s future workforce and economic competitiveness.

View the full statement on the NIDB.

LSU Ag Center | Project supported by state appropriations; non-profit grants and contracts. Photo courtesy of V. Todd Miller/LSU AgCenter.

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