Twenty teams from Western Oklahoma will put their brick building and robotics skills to the test, up from 12 last year.

The teams will represent a dozen schools in the FIRST Lego League  (ages 9-14) and FIRST Lego League Jr.  (ages 6-10), which engages students in hands-on STEM experiences, builds confidence, expands knowledge and develops positive learning habits.

Devon Energy sponsors the teams by providing all materials and training teachers who serve as coaches.

Nine teachers attended training June 17-21 in Okarche.

Tangi Smith, community relations specialist at Devon, said the company is focused on supporting programs which inspire students to explore science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

“Kids love building with Legos,” Smith said. “FIRST Lego League adds to the fun by presenting real-world challenges and showing how research, creativity and trial-and-error lead to amazing solutions. These are exactly the skills Devon employees use every day, which we hope to foster in the next generation of leaders.”

This year, the teams will follow the themes of “Boomtown Build” and “City Shaper” as they seek solutions, said returning coach Meagan Merkey from West Elementary School in Weatherford.

“Educators know how important it is to truly engage students and make what we’re teaching come alive,” Merkey said. “Devon’s support gives me everything I need to get the kids involved. Building my own project in the training program helped me understand how to connect fun activities to important life skills.”

The FIRST organization desires to inspire young people by offering mentor-based programs which build STEM skills. The goal is to encourage innovation and promote well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication and leadership, Smith said.

This year, teams from Calumet, El Reno, Geary, Hinton, Kingfisher, Lomega, Maple, Okarche, Watonga and Weatherford will compete in the FIRST Lego Leagues.