RoboScout Squad Heads to World Championship, Seeks Community Support
KALISPELL, MT – An all-female robotics team from Kalispell, Montana, RoboScout Squad FTC Team #18240, has qualified for the 2026 FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship in Houston, Texas, but is seeking financial assistance to make the trip possible.
Team Accomplishments and Background
RoboScout Squad, comprised of girls in grades 7-12, transitioned from FIRST LEGO League to FIRST Tech Challenge. The team members are also involved in Girl Scouts, academics, athletics and music. The team’s purpose centers around community outreach, education, and promoting STEM opportunities for girls in the Flathead Valley. RoboScout Squad emphasizes the development of skills such as engineering, teamwork, programming, strategy, construction, public speaking, innovation, research, project management, marketing, risk-taking, confidence, inclusivity, grit, critical thinking, and physics.
Road to the World Championship
On February 6, 2026, the team secured their advancement to the FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship, where over 300 teams globally will compete. According to team members, the qualification was a moment of shock and excitement. The team has spent months building and refining their 30-pound FTC robot, nicknamed “Bandit,” for the competition.
Financial Needs and Fundraising Efforts
The team estimates the total cost of the trip to Houston will be between $27,000 and $28,000, covering travel expenses, equipment transportation, and accommodation for the week-long competition. As of February 23, 2026, they have raised approximately $4,500 through community support.
“We could not do this without a great deal of support from our family, our friends, community business leaders and people who genuinely see the value in what we’re doing here and what these kids are learning,” stated Krista Nunnally, RoboScout Squad coach.
How to Support RoboScout Squad
The team is actively seeking donations through several avenues, including their GoFundMe account, checks, and business sponsorships. They hope to represent the Flathead Valley and Montana with pride on the national stage.
RoboScout Squad’s Recent Performance
RoboScout Squad has demonstrated consistent performance in recent competitions. They achieved 5th place in the Montana Championship – Bozeman – MSU on February 5-6, 2026, with a 6-1-0 record. They were also a Dean’s List Finalist (Lillie Groom) and received the Inspire Award 2nd Place, and were the Winning Alliance 1st Pick. FTCScout provides detailed match scores and rankings.
Past Robot Projects
The team has a history of innovative robot designs, including:
- “Kermit” (2020-2021): Featured a passive compliant roller intake, conveyor belt transport, and flywheel for launching rings.
- “Grover” (2021-2022): Included a worm gear powered lift arm, linear actuator extension, and innovative intake system.
- “McQueen” (2022-2023): Boasted a 36″ belt/pulley extension slide and dual motor, hot swappable lift.