PHYSICS — Potomac Highlands Youth STREAM Initiative

What We're Building

We're working to establish a permanent home for youth robotics, maker space access, and hands-on STEM programming in the Potomac Highlands.

Kids in our area don't have easy access to competitive robotics, maker tools, or the kind of hands-on learning that sparks real interest in engineering and science. We're working to change that—partnering with STEMpact, an established nonprofit led by award-winning educators that has been delivering robotics and STEM education across West Virginia for years.

Through STEMpact, we'll offer competitive robotics teams, classes, camps, workshops, and more—programs that simply don't exist in our area today.

More than just a STEM facility, we're creating a community gathering place—somewhere kids can come after school, families can spend time together on weekends, and neighbors can connect over shared interests. Game nights, birthday parties, workshops, and drop-in maker sessions will bring people together in ways rural communities don't always have access to. We're focused on the Wardensville-Baker area because it sits at the intersection of Hampshire and Hardy counties, making it accessible to families across the region who currently have to drive an hour or more for opportunities like this.

With STEMpact's proven track record and our community-focused facility, we're building something that can last.

What's Happening Now

Through STEMpact WV, competitive robotics and STEM programming are now available in Hampshire, Hardy and surrounding communities. New local teams are already competing—and more are launching soon. These are opportunities that didn't exist here before—and PHYSICS, in partnership with STEMpact WV, is working to make them permanent.

🚀 Launchpad Secured — Liftoff Coming Soon!

106 N. Main St, Moorefield, WV

304-530-7364

Follow us on Facebook for updates

STEMpact WV

A nonprofit led by award-winning educators delivering robotics and STEM programs to students across the region:

Competitive robotics teams (FLL, FTC)
Science Quests (multi-week classes)
One-time workshops
Birthday parties & live science shows
Tutoring & portfolio reviews
Professional development for educators

Learn more at stempactwv.org

Serving hundreds of students across West Virginia.

New Local Teams

With new teams starting up in our region, homeschool families and community groups finally have access to competitive robotics—programs that didn't exist here before. With the right space and STEMpact WV's leadership, we can reach even more kids who've never had access to opportunities like these.

FTC: RoosterBots (What is FTC?) – Just finished our first season, preparing for fall 2026

ADC (What is ADC?) – In season now

ADC Pro (What is ADC Pro?) – Registered for 2026-2027

What to Expect (When We Open)

Youth Robotics

Competitive teams for ages 9 and up—FTC, FLL, and Aerial Drone Competition. Kids learn to design, build, program, and compete alongside teammates from across the region.

Maker Space

A workspace for assembling robotics kits and STEM projects. Buy a kit and build it here, or bring your own project. Tools, 3D printing, workspace, and a little guidance when you need it.

Classes & Camps

Workshops, seasonal camps, and skill-building sessions for all ages. From one-day builds to week-long deep dives—3D modeling, 3D printing, robotics, and more. Hands-on learning that sticks.

Drop-In Sessions

For builders, tinkerers, and the curious—all ages, all places. Drop in, make something, and see what happens. Families and visitors will find projects for all ages—start something today, pick it up next time you're in town.

Community Events

Game nights, meetups, and social programming for kids and adults. Board games, video game tournaments, Magic: The Gathering, trivia, and more. A place to hang out and connect.

Retail

STEM kits, project supplies, and hands-on learning products. Everything you need to keep building at home—or start your next project right here.

...and more to come as we grow!

Why STREAM?

STREAM stands for Science, Technology, Robotics, Engineering, Arts, and Math. We believe in whole-child learning—where creativity and hands-on building are just as important as technical skills. Robotics brings it all together: kids design, build, program, problem-solve, and collaborate. Art and creativity aren't extras—they're part of how kids learn to think.

Kids who participate in STREAM programs build confidence, learn to work on teams, develop problem-solving skills, and discover interests that can shape their futures—whether that's engineering, design, coding, or trades. They learn to fail, iterate, and try again. They present their work, defend their ideas, and celebrate each other's wins. These aren't just technical skills—they're life skills that stick with kids long after the competition ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will you open?

We're moving in now and working toward a grand opening this spring. Follow us on Facebook for updates.

Where will you be located?

106 N. Main St, Moorefield, WV

What is PHYSICS? Who runs it?

PHYSICS, LLC was born out of a local family's frustration with the lack of opportunities—and their decision to do something about it. It's the operational arm of this venture, managing the community maker space, retail, youth employment, and community events. The facility will be privately owned and operated, with educational programming delivered through our partnership with STEMpact WV, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

What is STEMpact WV?

STEMpact WV is a nonprofit delivering robotics and STEM education across West Virginia. Our teams operate under STEMpact WV, and we're working together to bring their programming to the Potomac Highlands. Learn more at stempactwv.org.

Is this a nonprofit?

It's both. Robotics teams and educational programs run through STEMpact WV, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The building, retail, and some programming are operated by PHYSICS, LLC, a for-profit. This lets us stay mission-driven while keeping the doors open.

Are guests, tourists, and visitors welcome?

Absolutely. Whether you live here, you're visiting for the weekend, or you're just passing through—you're welcome. Drop-in sessions, the maker space, and community events are open to everyone. Families on vacation can start a project one day and pick it up the next time they're in town.

How can I support this?

Right now, the best way to help is spreading the word and telling people about what we're building. If you're interested in sponsoring a team, donating, or getting involved in another way, contact us and we'll connect you with the right people.

My kid wants to join a robotics team. How?

Each team has different seasons and enrollment periods. Contact us and we'll help you find the right fit and let you know when registration opens.

Are there programs for adults?

Yes—maker space access is open to all ages. We're planning workshops for adults too: drone training, 3D printing, electronics, and more. Have a skill you want to learn? Tell us.

Our Partners & Supporters

Why This Matters

Rural kids in West Virginia face real challenges—limited access to enrichment programs, higher rates of childhood trauma, and fewer pathways to opportunity. Research shows that youth in structured programs like robotics are less likely to struggle with substance abuse, more likely to stay in school, and more confident in their ability to solve problems. Beyond that, programs like this create real pathways—including youth employment opportunities that give teens job skills, responsibility, and a reason to stay connected. We're not just building a maker space—we're building a place where kids can belong, learn, and see a future for themselves.

How Your Support Helps

Sponsorships and donations go directly toward team registration fees, equipment, competition travel, and keeping programs accessible to families who couldn't otherwise afford them. Every contribution helps us bring these opportunities to kids who wouldn't have them otherwise.