Local student shares love of robotics to inspire others

Belmont resident Brogan Holt recalls when he was in the second grade and a group of students involved in a local robotics organization visited his school and opened his eyes to a whole new world.

He remembers how fascinating was to watch the demonstrations and it stoked his curiosity and desire to learn how things function. In the years since that experience, Brogan has been an active participant in the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) program.

FIRST is an international robotics competition that inspires young people to be science and technology leaders and innovators. Engaging students in mentor-based programs that build science, engineering, and technology skills, and inspire innovation, ultimately fosters self-confidence, improves communication, and builds leadership.

Brogan is currently a senior at Ohio Connections Academy. He enrolled in the statewide online public charter school last year after he came to the realization a career in science and technology would require a college degree. As no one in his family had ever gone to college, he believed the curriculum and support at OCA offered would better position him for success.

Ohio Connections Academy offered more advanced placement courses than what was available at his previous school. He also would have more opportunity to take college courses through the state’s College Credit Plus Program. In addition to the college prep courses, Brogan said the staff at Ohio Connections Academy have been incredibly helpful.

“I’ll be a first-generation college student, so we had no idea where to turn or what to do,” Brogan said. “My advisor, Miss Anderson, has been so helpful in getting my college applications and scholarship applications in order. Any time I email or call her she gets back to me right away.”

As Brogan has continued to study robotics and participate in the FIRST program, he’s committed to sharing his passion for science and technology to younger students, just as the students he met back in the second grade.

Brogan loves volunteering and sharing his excitement for robotics. Most recently he arranged a demonstration during an Ohio Connections Academy field trip to connect students to the FIRST program that has inspired him.

He said a seventh grade OCA student that he met that day has discovered her own passion for science and technology and has become a key member of the robotics team.

Brogan is also mentoring three other robotics teams in the area made up of students who might not otherwise have the opportunity. Two of those teams are made up of Rwandan refugees. The third team is made up of students who have Individualized Education Programs or learning disabilities.

While Brogan isn’t sure where he will land after his high school graduation this spring, he isn’t short on opportunities. He currently has been accepted to several universities including Ohio State University, Purdue University, Miami University, University of Dayton, and Xavier. In addition, he has already earned a significant amount in scholarship offers.