ORC Robotics Club
Our Story & Philosophy
ORC began with a simple dream in 2016: to build a bridge for STEM and robotics education across countries. At our home in Montréal, we were surprised to find that, despite the many robotics competitions, there was no real place for young children to learn robotics in a serious, structured, and inspiring way. Friends, families, and parents around us all shared the same question: “Why can’t we find a place where our smart kids can truly grow with robotics?”
With the support of ZONE01 Robotics and their strong teaching team, we officially started our own club in the summer of 2018. At the beginning, our only goal was to let children enjoy robotics — an opportunity most of us never had when we were kids. But soon, we saw the spark of curiosity and the light of wisdom in their eyes. That moment touched us deeply and pushed us to make ZONE01ORC more than just a fun club — we wanted it to be a place where passion meets purpose.
From our first campus on Montréal’s South Shore, ORC quickly expanded to the island of Montréal, downtown, and even Toronto. Our learners began to study STEM robotics in a systematic way and stepped confidently into competitions. When COVID struck, we adapted quickly: we designed a unique online learning platform using standard home mats,
multiple cameras, and virtual classrooms so kids could continue their journey even during lockdowns. Out of necessity, we even created one of the world’s first fully online robotics competition systems — a model later used by WRO 2020 International Finals, school boards in China, and the wider international community.
As we grew, ORC became the largest robotics club in Montréal. In 2020, our kids made history by winning Canada’s first international WRO medals — a breakthrough moment for our community. In 2022, 2024, and 2025, our teams proudly qualified again for the WRO International Finals as part of Team Canada.
Today, ORC welcomes learners from ages 5 to 19. From beginners building their first LEGO robot to advanced students joining our Engineer Squad — designing solar cars, eco-heaters, or even irrigation systems adapted to Montréal winters — our students are preparing not just for competitions, but for life, university, and their future careers. What makes us most proud is seeing our first generation of learners return to give back, mentoring the younger kids and carrying forward the spirit of ORC.This is our philosophy: robotics is not just about technology. It is about curiosity, resilience, teamwork, and creating a community where each generation inspires the next.