A first annual robotics competition hosted by the Idaho Cleanup Project contractor challenged eighth grade students to complete tasks inspired by real world cleanup efforts. March 10, 2026
Office of Environmental Management
March 10, 2026
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Eighth graders in southeastern Idaho competed in this year’s Ecobots Challenge, hosted by Idaho Cleanup Project contractor Idaho Environmental Coalition.
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — A first annual robotics competition hosted by the Idaho Cleanup Project contractor challenged eighth grade students to complete tasks inspired by real world cleanup efforts, showcasing how STEM education helps prepare the future workforce for meaningful contributions to environmental remediation and innovation.
In the Ecobots Challenge held by Idaho Environmental Coalition (IEC), students from southeastern Idaho designed, built and programmed robots to navigate complex missions with challenges modeled after waste management and environmental restoration activities at the Idaho National Laboratory site. They also honed collaboration and presentation skills, gaining valuable experience to prepare them for careers in technical fields supporting environmental cleanup and stewardship.
Rigby Middle School won first place in this year’s Ecobots Challenge. From left, coach Camille Barnes, Isaac Hart, Cameron Barnes, Brinley Thurgood and Karlee Simmons. Not pictured: coach Lingpei Zou.
Rigby Middle School’s team earned first place, winning $1,500 for its school’s science, technology, engineering and math programs. Praxium Mastery Academy and Black Canyon Middle School placed second and third, respectively, with both schools receiving funding to strengthen their STEM initiatives. Teams from Alturas Preparatory Academy, Watersprings School and White Pine STEM Academy also took part.
“Our students worked very hard to prepare for this competition, and their hard work paid off,” Rigby Middle School coach Lingpei Zou said. “We are so grateful to IEC for giving our students the opportunity to expand their STEM skills.”
Dan Coyne, IEC president and program manager, emphasized the importance of engaging students with hands-on opportunities connecting STEM learning to real world challenges.
“The Ecobots Challenge reflects the kind of creativity and problem-solving needed to address environmental cleanup projects,” Coyne said. “By supporting STEM education, we’re helping to inspire the next generation of innovators who can contribute to the long term success of our mission and our communities.”
-Contributors: Ryan Christensen, Leslie Dal Lago, Leamarie Mitchell
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