18-07-2025
- Business
- Business Journals
VEX Robotics World Championship sparks talent acquisition, community building and economic growth in St. Louis
In 2026 and 2027, St. Louis will welcome the world's brightest young innovators as the VEX Robotics World Championship takes over America's Center Convention Complex, bringing more than 2,000 teams of student competitors from more than 60 countries to the heart of downtown.
'Events like the VEX Robotics World Championship are a win on every level – they energize our hotels, restaurants and attractions while affirming St. Louis as a top-tier destination for international conventions,' Ed Skapinok, chief commercial officer at Explore St. Louis, says. 'Explore St. Louis' effort to secure the competition for two years will bring tens of thousands of visitors to the region each year, create jobs and inject millions into our economy.'
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Beyond economic activity, events like the VEX Robotics World Championship build lasting social capital. They inspire local students to pursue STEM careers, highlight the region as an innovation hub and even encourage international participants to consider St. Louis universities for future education.
'Whether in classrooms or competitions, our robotics, drone and workforce programs provide a unique learning environment that fosters creativity, problem-solving and adaptability in a world where technology is constantly evolving,' Dan Mantz, CEO of the Robotics Education & Competition Foundation, says. 'Our industry certifications in robotics and pre-engineering continue to expand, equipping students with the skills and credentials needed for future careers in STEM fields.'
That's exactly the kind of talent St. Louis wants to attract – and the VEX Robotics World Championship presents a unique opportunity for local employers to engage with it. From middle and high schoolers to university-bound students, the event will bring emerging talent directly into the region's orbit.
'The true value of meetings and conventions goes far beyond the events themselves,' Skapinok says. 'When attendees and delegates come to St. Louis, we hope to influence them as much as they influence us. By facilitating connections between international students and local companies with events like VEX Robotics, we're helping to strengthen the region's workforce pipeline in a meaningful way.
'As St. Louis continues to grow as a destination for global events, what will truly set us apart is our ability to turn those moments into lasting community impact,' he continues. 'You never know how a student competition, keynote session or even a board meeting might inspire someone – or shape the future of an entire generation. That's the power of meetings with meaning.'
Large-scale conventions also provide leadership, service and learning opportunities for local businesses and community members. The VEX Robotics World Championship will rely on some 4,000 volunteers, who will serve as greeters, referees and judges while showcasing St. Louis hospitality.
'Many of our best supporters don't contribute dollars,' Mantz says. 'They contribute time.'
In preparation, the Robotics Education & Competition Foundation will hold its planning summit in St. Louis from July 20 to 25, during which time the team aims to meet with local business and community leaders to discuss volunteer opportunities and build momentum.
