On April 25, the Silicon Valley Ice Skating Association hosted Robots on Ice 2026 at Sharks Ice in San Jose, bringing together engineers, students, and families for a unique robotics showcase on the ice.
Teams from across the Bay Area tested their creations in one of the most challenging environments imaginable—an ice rink. Robots raced, balanced, and competed in real time, turning engineering experiments into live spectator action.
This year’s event featured expanded programming, including more structured robot races that pushed speed and stability on ice to new levels. A major highlight was the debut of the first-ever Robot Hockey game, where robots passed, defended, and attempted to score in fast-paced matchups.
From agile racing bots to creatively engineered prototypes, the event showcased both the creativity and unpredictability of robotics in motion. Spectators witnessed machines adapting, failing, and improving under real-world constraints.
As covered by The Mercury News, Robots on Ice continues to grow as a signature Bay Area STEM event, blending innovation, competition, and hands-on learning in a uniquely engaging format.
Thank you to all participants, volunteers, and partners who made this year’s event possible—we look forward to seeing what next year brings to the ice.
Image Source: Mercury News
Silicon Valley Ice Skating Association 