We Aren't Robots -
We Create Them
Equipping Black & Brown students with innovative robotics skills for tomorrow's tech careers. Join our online academy and unlock your potential in the future of technology.
Trusted by Leading Tech Organizations
Why Choose BDPArobotics
Expert-Led Instruction
Learn from industry professionals and experienced robotics engineers who are passionate about empowering the next generation of Black & Brown tech leaders.
Hands-On Virtual Labs
Get real robotics experience through our cutting-edge virtual lab environment - no expensive equipment needed, just your creativity and determination.
Career-Ready Skills
Build a portfolio of projects that showcase your abilities to future employers and college admissions teams in STEM fields.
What Sets Us Apart
Representation Matters
Join a supportive community where you see yourself reflected in instructors, mentors, and fellow students who share your experiences and ambitions.
Learn Your Way
Our online platform fits your schedule - whether you're balancing school, work, or family commitments, you can learn at your own pace.
Real Opportunities
Connect with tech companies actively seeking diverse talent through our exclusive job placement and internship programs.
Affordable Excellence
Financial barriers shouldn't stop your dreams. We offer scholarships and payment plans to make robotics education accessible.
Success Stories From Our Students
"BDPArobotics didn't just teach me coding - it showed me I belong in tech. Now I'm studying engineering at Georgia Tech with a full scholarship."
Marcus J.
Atlanta, GA
"The virtual robotics lab blew my mind. I built my first autonomous robot from my bedroom and got into my dream computer science program."
Zara M.
Chicago, IL
"My instructors looked like me and believed in me. That made all the difference. I just landed an internship at a major tech company."
DeShawn R.
Oakland, CA
"I went from never touching code to building AI-powered robots in 6 months. This program changed my entire future."
Amara K.
Houston, TX
Network with tech professionals, 10x your chapter with chapter building workshops, upskill and discover AI, robotics, and quantum computing
Day 1 – Friday, March 14, 2025
📍 Hackathon + Networking Event
8:00 – 9:00 AM → Hackathon Kickoff & Team Formation
9:00 – 12:00 PM → Hackathon Morning Work Session
12:00 – 1:00 PM → Lunch Break
1:00 – 5:00 PM → Hackathon Afternoon Work Session
5:00 – 6:30 PM → Final Project Submissions Due
6:30 – 7:00 PM → Hackathon Ends – Transition
7:00 – 9:00 PM → Networking Reception (students, sponsors, professionals)
Note: No awards Friday (students stay engaged with networking instead)
Day 2 – Saturday, March 15, 2025
📍 Main Stage – Workshops, Panels & Demo Day
9:00 – 9:30 AM → Opening Remarks
9:30 – 10:00 AM → Keynote #1
10:00 – 12:00 PM → Workshops & Talks (AI, Robotics, Cybersecurity, Entrepreneurship)
12:00 – 1:00 PM → Lunch Break
1:00 – 3:30 PM → Panels & Talks
3:30 – 5:00 PM → Demo Day Pitches
5:00 – 6:00 PM → Break & Reset
6:00 – 8:00 PM → Fireside Chats & Evening Talks
8:00 – 9:00 PM → Demo Day Final Showcase
9:00 – 9:30 PM → Hackathon Awards Ceremony (Judges Announce Winners)
9:30 – 10:00 PM → Closing Session & Networking Reception
Day 3 – Sunday, March 16, 2025
📍 Golden Gate Park – Outdoor Community Day
Community Bonding & Team Building
- Group hike (Lands End / Marin Headlands)
- Park BBQ (Golden Gate Park or Presidio)
- Optional beach gathering (Ocean Beach)
- Informal mentorship circles and community fellowship
Stay Updated
Get the latest updates about BDPA Next Wave
Tenaiya King
BDPA National Director of Communications
National BDPA and Communications
Kareem DaSilva
BDPA San Francisco Chapter President
Growing Chapter Numbers
Norman Mays
Long Time Lifetime Member
BDPA Legacy and Experience
BDPA Members
- • Access to all general sessions (workshops, panels, demo day)
- • Invitation to Friday Networking Reception
- • Sunday outdoor activity included
- • Priority registration for Saturday workshops
No Membership
- • Access to all general sessions (workshops, panels, demo day)
- • Friday Networking Reception
- • Sunday outdoor activity included
- • (No member-exclusive perks)
Silver Admission
All benefits above plus:
- • Reserved seating for Keynotes & Panels
- • Access to one premium workshop track (AI, Robotics, or Cybersecurity)
- • Conference swag bag (t-shirt, notebook, pen, etc.)
- • Recognition in conference program as Silver Attendee
Gold Admission
All Silver benefits plus:
- • Access to all premium workshops (AI, Robotics, Cybersecurity)
- • Access to speakers' slides & workshop recordings post-event
- • Exclusive networking lunch with panelists and sponsors
- • Premium swag (BDPA tech kit — portable charger, notebook, etc.)
- • Recognition in conference program as Gold Attendee
VIP Admission
All Gold benefits plus:
- • VIP Reception with keynote speakers, sponsors & BDPA leadership
- • Personalized 1:1 mentorship session with a senior BDPA professional
- • Front-row reserved seating at all sessions
- • VIP swag bundle (premium bag, hoodie, tech gear)
- • Recognition on conference website and social media
BDPA Member Benefit: All BDPA members receive $100 off any admission tier
Travel
Fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK)
Accommodation
Partner hotel discounts available. Details will be shared with registered attendees.
Transportation
Group shuttles provided between venues. Public transit options available.
Share your expertise and inspire the next generation of tech leaders! We're looking for dynamic speakers to present at BDPA Next Wave.
Partner with us to support the next generation of tech leaders and connect with top talent from across the region.
Platinum Sponsor
- • Keynote speaking opportunity
- • Premium booth space
- • Logo on all materials
- • VIP reception access
Gold Sponsor
- • Workshop hosting opportunity
- • Standard booth space
- • Logo on conference materials
- • Networking reception access
Silver Sponsor
- • Display table
- • Logo on website
- • Welcome reception access
- • Recruitment opportunities
Help make BDPA Next Wave a success! Volunteers gain valuable event experience and networking opportunities while supporting the tech community.
Event Support
- • Registration desk assistance
- • Session room setup & management
- • Audio/visual support
- • Attendee guidance & information
Community Outreach
- • Social media content creation
- • Photography & videography
- • Student mentor support
- • Networking facilitation
Volunteer Benefits:
- • Free conference access
- • Volunteer appreciation dinner
- • Professional development certificate
- • Networking opportunities with speakers and sponsors
Your Questions Answered
Ready to Build Your Future?
Join hundreds of Black & Brown students who are already shaping tomorrow's technology. Your robotics journey starts with one click.