This article is an excerpt from the Winter 2026 Talcott Continuum newsletter. Download the full newsletter.
Talcott Mountain Science Center’s robotics team, Talcott Lightning, has a long history, with trophies dating back to the 1990s and early 2000s, but few in the years between. Over the past two years, led by Dhiren Dommeti, Computer Science and Technology Teacher and IT Specialist, the program has been relaunched through the First LEGO League (FLL), where students design, build, and program LEGO robots to solve complex challenges.
“As a first-time coach, I built the program to ensure students take ownership of their designs while receiving structured guidance in programming, and engineering strategy,” Dhiren says. “My role is to mentor and challenge them to think critically, test ideas, and refine their solutions.”
During the 2025 season, the team earned the Core Values Award at regional qualifiers and advanced to the state competition. In addition to competing with their robots, teams also complete research papers as part of the state competition requirements to showcase what they are learning in robotics. For the 2025 state competition, Talcott Lightning interviewed a Connecticut archaeologist as part of their research, which they presented to judges.
“Through structured coaching and intentional team development, students learned how to define roles, collaborate effectively, and approach complex problems with confidence,” Dhiren shares. “Watching them grow into independent problem-solvers has been one of the most meaningful outcomes of the program.”
Talcott Lightning currently operates with two groups, a main competition team and a secondary team focused on skill-building and preparation for future seasons. The current team includes two Talcott Mountain Academy students, with others joining from surrounding schools. Dhiren is working to grow participation through outreach, sponsorships, and plans for a summer robotics program. Next year’s FLL season will also incorporate computer science and artificial intelligence, expanding what students can explore.
“I would like to thank Jeff Martin and Dr. Kenneth Wright for their support throughout this robotics journey. Their encouragement and backing have been instrumental in relaunching and growing the program,” Dhiren says. “I also want all the students to know that technology is not as hard as it seems. When they’re interested in it, they can learn by exploring. Robotics is not just a hands-on learning experience, but an opportunity to hone the skills they are interested in and have fun along the way.”
Talcott Lightning is shaping the next generation of innovators as the program continues to grow. Alumni and donors can spread the word, help recruit students, or explore sponsorship opportunities. To learn more or get involved, visit talcottscience.org/science-center/robotics.