The Lynx Initiative

Program Summary

FIRST Lego League (FLL) – Challenge

The Lynx Initiative FLL team embodies the spirit of friendly competition, inviting teams of 4th to 6th-grade students on an exhilarating journey of exploration and innovation. Through hands-on activities in research, problem-solving, coding, and engineering, participants build and program a LEGO robot to navigate the dynamic missions of a thrilling robot game.

As they dive into the intricacies of robotics, students not only grasp the fundamentals of engineering but also delve into real-world problems, honing their critical thinking skills and devising ingenious solutions. Working collaboratively, they learn the value of teamwork, pooling their creativity and expertise to design and construct a robot that tackles each challenge with finesse.

Under the dedicated supervision of adults, including experienced mentors and volunteers, The Lynx Initiative high school students will play a crucial role in mentoring and guiding the younger participants. Through this mentorship model, we aim to provide valuable learning experiences and foster meaningful connections and support within our community. Together, we are shaping a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive and succeed in STEM.

FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC)

FTC with The Lynx Initiative offers a transformative experience that goes beyond mere robotics. Students in grades 7-12, forming teams of up to 15 members, embark on an exhilarating journey of design, engineering, and teamwork as they conceive, construct, program, and operate robots to compete in dynamic head-to-head challenges, following an alliance format.

Under the guidance of dedicated adult coaches and mentors, participants not only cultivate STEM skills and engineering principles but also learn the invaluable lessons of perseverance, innovation, and collaboration. With a reusable robot kit and Java-based programming options, students have the flexibility to unleash their creativity and problem-solving abilities, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

FTC teams engage in a multifaceted approach, from designing and building robots to fundraising, branding, and community outreach. Through these diverse activities, participants have the opportunity to earn specific awards and are eligible to apply for over $80M in college scholarships, further incentivizing their dedication and commitment.

The season culminates in regional championship events and the prestigious FIRST Championship, where teams showcase their ingenuity and compete on a global stage. Additionally, each year brings a new and exhilarating game challenge, encouraging students to continuously innovate and adapt.

Beyond the competition arena, FTC teams are committed to making a positive impact in their communities, engaging in outreach activities during the off-season. By inspiring the next generation of innovators and leaders, FTC with The Lynx Initiative fosters a culture of excellence, inclusion, and lifelong learning.

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Getting Here

By Road:

The museum is located at 201 N. Bragaw, just north of the Glenn Highway (6th Avenue as it leaves Anchorage). From either direction, take the Bragaw Street, and turn north onto Bragaw. Cross Mountain View Drive, and the museum and adjacent parking are located on the left side of the street.

By Bus:

Anchorage People Mover Public Bus Route 45 provides access from downtown Anchorage right to our door.

Parking:

The museum offers free off-street parking, located adjacent to the building.