Thank you to our sponsors
Current Events
Introduction to ROS2
Sunday July 6th · 10am - 12pm PDT
Introduction to ROS
Are you curious about the fascinating world of ROS? This workshop presented by aspiring Roboticist Samuel Oyefusi provides a hands-on introduction to ROS (Robot Operating System), the modular middleware widely used in robotics research and industry. Participants will learn core ROS concepts such as nodes, topics, messages, services, and packages, and will gain practical experience with ROS 1 (or ROS 2, depending on platform) using simulated or real robotic systems. The workshop will also cover tools like RViz and Gazebo for visualization and simulation, helping participants understand how to build and integrate robotic functionalities in a scalable and reusable way. GITHUB
The cost of the workshop is $5.00 per participant plus $2.85 Eventbrite service charge.
WORKSHOP FEE IS NON-REFUNDABLE UNLESS CANCELLED BY BLACK IN ROBOTICS. The service charge is non-refundable.
All participants must complete pre-work before the start of the workshop.
Install required free online software ROS2 Humble.
This workshop is recommended for learners 15 years and older. Younger participants should attend with an adult guardian. Previous experience with Python, Networking, Linux, C++ is helpful.
For any questions, please contact blackinrobotics@gmail.com
Internet of Things Robotic Car
Saturday July 12th · 7am-9am PDT
This workshop is presented by electrical engineer Abubakar Muhammad. Participants will build a robotic car and use Internet of Things (IOT) to monitor and control it. All participants will receive a robotic car kit with costs and supplemented by our sponsors. Please see all sponsors on BlackInRobotics.com website.
You must provide your shipping address to receive a kit and we DO NOT SHIP outside the United States.
The cost of the workshop is $35.00 per participant plus $2.85 Eventbrite service charge.
WORKSHOP FEE IS NON-REFUNDABLE UNLESS CANCELLED BY BLACK IN ROBOTICS. The service charge is non-refundable.
All participants must complete pre-work before the start of the workshop.
You will need a computer with Internet connection, note paper, pen, scissors and tape.
Install VS Code, Proteus 8 professional on your computer.
This workshop is recommended for learners 13+ years and older. Younger participants should attend with an adult guardian. Prerequisites: C++ programming, knowlege of how to use vscode, basic electronics.
For any questions, please contact blackinrobotics@gmail.com
Beginning Coding in Python through Robot Arm Programming
Sunday July 13th · 10am-12pm PDT
This workshop presented by Alex LaGrassa, TJ Thomas and Ranysha Ware is a Google CoLab-based lab course where basic programming principles are introduced. Participants can physically see the results of their code on a simulated robot. The main programming principles covered include how to make variables and call functions from a library. The robotics concepts include a high-level description of what kinematics models do, how to use them, and a framework for basic overhead pick-and-place. The library uses a simulated Franka arm with a fixed base that is visualized through a renderer. The simulator is PyBullet.
The cost of the workshop is $5.00 per participant plus $2.85 Eventbrite service charge.
WORKSHOP FEE IS NON-REFUNDABLE UNLESS CANCELLED BY BLACK IN ROBOTICS. The service charge is non-refundable.
All participants must complete pre-work before the start of the workshop.
You will need a computer with at least 8GM RAM preferred, and a browser that's signed into a Google account.
This workshop is recommended for learners in Grade 7 and higher. Younger participants should attend with an adult guardian. Prerequisites: Knowledge of 2D coordinates - can plot a point using an x and y axis. No prior programming experience is required.
Building AI Agents
Saturday July 19th · 10am-12pm PDT
Building AI Agents
This hands-on workshop presented by Daniel Akhabue offers you the opportunity to learn how to design, build, and deploy your very own AI intelligent agents. We’ll cover core concepts like Generative AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), Prompt Engineering, decision-making, and action loops—then put your agent to the test in a fun, real-world challenge. No prior AI experience needed—just bring your curiosity and get ready to tinker, learn, and collaborate!
The cost of the workshop is $5.00 per participant plus $2.85 Eventbrite service charge.
WORKSHOP FEE IS NON-REFUNDABLE UNLESS CANCELLED BY BLACK IN ROBOTICS. The service charge is non-refundable.
All participants must complete pre-work before the start of the workshop.
Laptop
Access to Internet Connection
OpenAI API Access
Python IDE, most favorably Visual Studio Code installed
This workshop is recommended for learners 15 years and older. Younger participants should attend with an adult guardian. Fundamentals of python programming is required, and basic math understanding will be advantageous.
For any questions, please contact blackinrobotics@gmail.com
AI for Robotics I: Drones, ML, CV
Sunday July 20th · 10am-12pm PDT
AI for Robotics I: Drones, ML, CV
This workshop presented by Kayode Akanni and Cyril Azubuine provide an introduction to Drones. Participants will explore drone control, object recognition and tracking of a specific object.
The cost of the workshop is $35.00 per participant plus $2.85 Eventbrite service charge.
WORKSHOP FEE IS NON-REFUNDABLE UNLESS CANCELLED BY BLACK IN ROBOTICS. The service charge is non-refundable.
All participants must complete pre-work before the start of the workshop.
Drone Kit
This workshop is recommended for learners 12 years and older. Younger participants should attend with an adult guardian. Other than basic digital literacy, no prior coding or robotics experience required.
For any questions, please contact blackinrobotics@gmail.com
Mechanical Design for Robotics I (Fusion 360)
Saturday July 26th · 10am-12pm PDT
Mechanical Design for Robotics I (Fusion 360)
This hands-on workshop presented by Chidinma Ogbulie provides an overview of the mechanical design process and yools, an introduction to Fusion360 for CAD -Interface, tools and concepts in design. 2D Drafting and 3D modelling, design of basic 3D models for easy understanding. Introduction to Design for manufacturing (3D Printing). Final day comes with Design of a Robot Car Chasis in Fusion360 (Hands-on).
The cost of the workshop is $5.00 per participant plus $2.85 Eventbrite service charge.
WORKSHOP FEE IS NON-REFUNDABLE UNLESS CANCELLED BY BLACK IN ROBOTICS. The service charge is non-refundable.
All participants must complete pre-work before the start of the workshop.
Computer with Internet Connectivity
Set up an account autodesk.com
Install Fusion360 software (free license for students to have access to the software, for 1 year. Otherwise you canuse the free trial version which spans for 30days)
This workshop is recommended for learners 15 years and older. Younger participants should attend with an adult guardian.
For any questions, please contact blackinrobotics@gmail.com
Past Events
Introduction to Drones, Machine Learning and Computer Vision
Saturday, June 7 · 10am - 12pm PDT
Join us for our first Black in Robotics workshop of Summer 2025: Introduction to Drones, Machine Learning and Computer Vision!
Are you fascinated by drones, machine learning, and computer vision? This online workshop is perfect for you! Dive into the world of cutting-edge technology and learn how drones utilize machine learning and computer vision to navigate and perform tasks. Presented by Daniel Eneh (Robotics Software Engineer), this workshop will be packed with insightful information and practical demonstrations.
All participants will receive a drone kit with costs supplemented by our sponsors. Please see all sponsors on the BlackInRobotics.com website.
You must provide your shipping address to receive a kit.
We DO NOT ship outside the United States.
The cost of the workshop is $35.00 per participant plus $2.85 Eventbrite service charge.
WORKSHOP FEE IS NON-REFUNDABLE UNLESS CANCELED BY BLACK IN ROBOTICS. The service charge is non-refundable.
All participants must complete pre-work before the start of the workshop.
Build the drone.
Install required software.
This workshop is recommended for learners 13 years and older. Younger participants should attend with an adult guardian.
For any questions, please contact blackinrobotics@gmail.com.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Sunday, June 15 · 10am - 12pm PDT
Introduction to Arduino
Sunday, June 22 · 10am - 12pm PDT
Welcome to the Black in Robotics' Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning event!
Are you curious about the fascinating world of AI and ML? Join us for this online event where software engineer and expert Sosna Worku Achamyeleh will share insights, trends, and practical applications in these cutting-edge technologies. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced professional, there's something for everyone. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and network with like-minded individuals. Mark your calendar and reserve your spot today!
The cost of the workshop is $5.00 per participant plus $2.85 Eventbrite service charge.
WORKSHOP FEE IS NON-REFUNDABLE UNLESS CANCELLED BY BLACK IN ROBOTICS. The service charge is non-refundable.
This workshop is recommended for learners 12 years and older. Younger participants should attend with an adult guardian.
For any questions, please contact blackinrobotics@gmail.com
Detailed Description
This workshop offers introduction to Machine Learning, a key area within Artificial Intelligence. Participants will explore how machines learn patterns from data through supervised learning techniques such as linear regression and decision trees. We’ll cover essential ML concepts including data preprocessing (normalization, encoding), model training and testing, loss functions (like mean squared error), and evaluation metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. Using Python and the Scikit-learn library in a Jupyter Notebook environment, attendees will build and evaluate simple models on real-world datasets, such as predicting house prices or classifying spam messages. The session will also touch on important topics like overfitting, train-test split, and the basics of model tuning. By the end of the workshop, participants will gain a clear understanding of how to approach ML problems, build a basic model, and evaluate its performance.
Prerequisites
Fundamentals of programming (preferably in Python), Data Structures and Algorithms
Software Required
Ideally Python IDLE and Pycharm but we can also utilize Google Co-lab or Jupyter notebook. Stable Internet Connection.
Introduction to Arduino
Are you curious about the fascinating world of Arduino? Join us for this online event where Robotics Engineer and expert Chidinma Ogbulie will share insights, trends, and practical applications in these cutting-edge technologies. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced professional, there's something for everyone. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and network with like-minded individuals. Mark your calendar and reserve your spot today!
All participants will receive an Arduino kit with costs supplemented by our sponsors. Please see all sponsors on the BlackInRobotics.com website.
You must provide your shipping address to receive a kit.
We DO NOT ship outside the United States.
The cost of the workshop is $35.00 per participant plus $2.85 Eventbrite service charge.
WORKSHOP FEE IS NON-REFUNDABLE UNLESS CANCELED BY BLACK IN ROBOTICS. The service charge is non-refundable.
All participants must complete pre-work before the start of the workshop.
Install required free online software Arduino IDE and Autodesk Tinkercad.
This workshop is recommended for learners 8 years and older. Younger participants should attend with an adult guardian. Basic electronics experience is helpful but not required for this workshop.
For any questions, please contact blackinrobotics@gmail.com
Introduction to AI using Python Workshop
Sunday, June 29 · 10am - 12pm PDT
We invite you to participate in the Introduction to AI Workshop. It will be lead by members of Black In Robotics.
Facilitator: NASA Engineer, Aaron Shepard
Workshop Agenda:
Understanding AI: Begin by unraveling the concept of AI, exploring its definition, capabilities, and the different types such as machine learning and natural language processing.
Applications of AI: Explore real-world applications of AI that are transforming industries, from healthcare and finance to retail and entertainment.
Building Your Own AI Assistant: Dive into a guided session where you will learn how to create a basic AI assistant using user-friendly tools and platforms. No prior coding experience necessary!
Hands-on Practice: Participants will have the opportunity to experiment with their AI assistants, customizing functionalities and interacting with their creations in real-time.
Q&A and Discussion: Wrap up the workshop with an open discussion, where you can ask questions, share insights, and discuss the future of AI.
Who Should Attend:
Professionals curious about integrating AI into their work.
Students interested in exploring AI as a career path.
Anyone fascinated by the possibilities of artificial intelligence.
Key Takeaways:
A foundational understanding of AI concepts and terminology.
Insight into practical applications of AI across different sectors.
Experience in creating and interacting with a basic AI assistant.
Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today!
P ayment non-refundable unless event is cancelled by Black In Robotics. If kits are required to be shipped, the Black In Robotics sponsors cover the difference in cost and shipping. We do not ship kits internationally.
For any questions, please contact carlottaberry@gmail.com.
ICRA 2025 - Atlanta GA - Black in Robotics Social
ICRA 2024 - Yokohama Japan - Black in Robotics Social
Workshop [Bay Area Chapter]: February 23, 2024; 4-7p
Description:
Join us for an informative event where we'll share valuable insights on how to land your dream job! Whether you're a recent graduate or looking for a career change, this event is perfect for you. Our experts will provide practical tips on self-advertisement and guide you through the interview process. In this workshop we will cover promoting yourself on LinkedIn, perfecting your resume, and mastering the interview process. The objective of this workshop is to empower minority groups interested in autonomous vehicles and robotics to tell their story boldly and effectively through the future interview process and conversations
Eventbrite link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/how-to-get-hired-self-advertisement-and-the-interview-process-gatik-bir-tickets-827510745917?aff=oddtdtcreator
Introduction to AI Using Python: Sunday, August 25, 204, 2:30 - 4:30 EDT.
Artificial Intelligence is set to become one of the next great technological innovations, and we at Black in Robotics want to make sure that it is understandable and accessible to everyone!
This session will briefly cover the history and modern applications of AI, however the workshop will be heavily focused on giving participants hands on experience building and coding their own personal AI assistants using Python and OpenAI
Required age: 12+ with parent/guardian assistants recommended for younger participants. Basic python coding experience is required
Required computer systems: All workshop materials have been validated on a Windows PC (preferably Window 10 or 11) with Python 3.10 installed. Any version of Python greater than 3.7 is required. Workshop material functionality cannot be guaranteed on Mac or Linux (e.g. Chromebook) operating systems
All necessary course materials will be supplied to participants through a GitHub repository
The cost of the workshop is $5 per participant plus $2.85 Eventbrite service charge. The service charge is non-refundable.
Payment non-refundable unless event is cancelled by Black In Robotics. If kits are required to be shipped, the Black In Robotics sponsors cover the difference in cost and shipping. We do not ship kits internationally.
Introduction to Robotics using Lily∞Bot and Arduino Uno: Sunday November 10, 2024 (10 a.m. - 12 p.m. PDT)
The workshop is an introduction to robotics and robots and will involve programming, robot building and creating basic behaviors with sensors on the Lily ∞Bot. All participants will receive a Lily∞Bot robotics kit with costs and supplemented by our sponsors. Please see all sponsors on BlackInRobotics.com website. The kit will be purchased from NoireSTEMinist.com/shop.
You must provide your shipping address to receive a kit and we DO NOT SHIP outside the United States.
The cost of the workshop is $35 per participant plus $2.85 Eventbrite service charge. The service charge is non-refundable.
Payment non-refundable unless event is cancelled by Black In Robotics. If kits are required to be shipped, the Black In Robotics sponsors cover the difference in cost and shipping. We do not ship kits internationally.
BiR Summer 2023 Workshops!
Upcoming Workshops dates and topics:
6/18 Python (11:30a-1:30p PST)
7/16 Arduino (10a-12p PST)
8/20 Artificial Intelligence Python
9/17 Drones
10/01 Plant watering with VIAM Robotics
10/15 Raspberry Pico Robots
11/19 AI using Python Part II
IROS 2023 (Detroit Michigan) Networking Session
ICRA 2023 (London) BiR Networking Session
BiR Summer 2022 Workshops!
Please join Black in Robotics for a networking social hour. There will be a short presentation on the mission of BiR, ongoing activities, and how to become involved as members and allies. Following the presentation, we will have networking with refreshments. Guests must be registered for ICRA 2022. Date/Time: Tuesday May 24, 2022, 5:45-6:45p EST.
BiR at ICRA 2022
STEAMSPORT Leadership Training by Black In Robotics Outreach sponsored by Amazon
BiR at ICRA 2022, over 50 Black and ally roboticist learning about BiR mission and activities over ice cream!
BiR at ICRA 2022: Dean Ayanna Howard discussing BiR Activities in the ice cream social!
Workshops dates and topics:
7/17 VEX VR/Tinkercad
724 Arduino
7/31 Arduino
More coming in August!
BiR Bay Area Chapter Launch!
The BiR Bay area chapter will be launching this summer 2022, with a launch date of Sunday August 28th 2022 from 12p-3:30p PT. Location details can be found in the BiR Slack and Email list, please email blackinrobotics@gmail.com with any questions!
We will have time for networking, hearing about technical work from the BiR Bay Area Directors and hearing from our industry partners. Food will be provided.
Introduction to Robotics Workshop, Sunday, February 21, 2021 5:00 pm, EDT
ROS2 Software Workshop, Sunday, March 14, 2021 5:00 pm EDT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/143877498471
Arduino Workshop, Sunday, March 28, 2021 3:00 pm EDT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/144518339243
ROS2 Software Workshop, Sunday April 11, 2021, 5:00 pm EDT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/144516515789
Arduino Workshop, Sunday, May 2, 2021, 3:00 pm EDT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/144678239509
Arduino Workshop, Sunday, May 16, 2021, 3:00 pm EDT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/148026413989
Arduino Workshop, Wednesday, May 19, 2021 4:00 pm EDT
ROS2 Software Workshop, Sunday May 30, 2021, 5:00 pm EDT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/144516820701
Arduino Workshop, Sunday, June 13, 2021, 3:00 pm EDT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/148044843111
Building a ROS2 Robot Workshop, Sunday, June 27, 2021, 5:00 pm EDT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/144488642419
Arduino Workshop, Sunday, July 11, 2021, 3:00 pm EDT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/144679057957
Elementary VEX VR Robotics Workshop, Sunday, July 18, 2021, 3:00 pm EDT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/150135309753
Building a ROS2 Robot Workshop, Sunday, July 25, 2021, 5:00 pm EDT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/145965846777
Arduino Workshop II, Sunday, Aug 1, 2021, 3:00 pm EDT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/50834499047
Black in Robotics - Boston Chapter Launch
Black in Robotics is launching the first local chapter in Boston, MA. Virtually join us on March 30, 2021, to network with the community, learn how industry and academia are coming together around the goals of Diversity, Community, and Excellence!
Through the Boston chapter, BiR will create opportunities for early-career roboticists to collaborate and connect.
Join roboticists from all career stages and backgrounds to:
Learn more about the Boston Regional Chapter plans for the coming year.
Hear a panel of expert roboticists from academia and industry discuss their work and the importance of diversity in robotics.
Understand the importance of industry partnerships and how companies like Amazon and Teradyne are tackling DEI initiatives.
Connect and network with other Black roboticists.
Get first-hand knowledge about exciting upcoming BiR initiatives.
Details:
We will have a virtual session for Boston Locals from 5:30-6:35pm EST, the agenda will include hearing from a local Boston panel of Roboticists and a networking activity.
We will have a Virtual General Session open to the entire BiR community from 6:40-7:20pm EST. Where the agenda includes hearing from our industry partners on their diversity initiatives and partnership with BiR as well as ongoing BiR initatives.
Please register here: https://www.accelevents.com/e/BlackinRoboticsBostonChapterLaunch
All events will be hosted virtually through the AccelEvents platform. Please remember to select the sessions you plan to attend!
IROS!
We are hosting two events around the time of one of the biggest conferences in robotics, IROS (or the International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems). Our formal launch event at IROS will be held on Saturday October 31st and our student engagement event will be held on Saturday, November 14th. We will also have an Ally Event Sunday November 1st, 3pm PT (details below). Click the links below for more information!
D.I.Y. Robotics Workshop
In partnership with Black Women in A.I., Black In Robotics will be hosting Introduction to Robotics and Advanced Robotics workshops. Feel free to sign up below!