A talented young robotics enthusiast from Geelong is set to represent Australia on the world stage after being selected to showcase his creation at a major international expo.
Jasper Chandley, a 15-year-old student at St Joseph's College, will travel to Detroit in the United States to present his robotics project at Xponential 2026, the premier global event for unmanned systems and robotics.
The expo, scheduled for June 2026, brings together innovators, industry leaders, and researchers from around the world to explore the latest advancements in autonomous technology.
Jasper's project, which he has been developing over the past year, focuses on creating a robot capable of navigating complex environments using advanced sensors and artificial intelligence.
His passion for robotics began at a young age, and he has since dedicated countless hours to learning programming, electronics, and mechanical design.
“I’ve always been fascinated by how machines can think and move on their own,” Jasper said. “Being able to share my work with people from all over the world is a dream come true.”
The selection process for Xponential 2026 was highly competitive, with students from across Australia vying for a spot. Jasper's innovative design and technical skills impressed the judges, earning him a place among the top young innovators.
His teacher at St Joseph's College, Mr. David Thompson, praised Jasper's dedication and creativity.
“Jasper is an exceptional student who consistently pushes the boundaries of what is possible. His project demonstrates a deep understanding of robotics and a commitment to solving real-world problems,” Mr. Thompson said.
The expo will also feature workshops, keynote speeches from industry experts, and opportunities for young innovators to network with potential mentors and investors.
Jasper hopes that his participation will inspire other students in Geelong to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
“I want to show that anyone with a passion for technology can achieve great things,” he said. “You just need to be curious and willing to learn.”
The news has been met with excitement in the local community, with many praising Jasper's achievement as a testament to the quality of education at St Joseph's College.
Principal Mark McGrath said the school was incredibly proud of Jasper's accomplishment.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for Jasper and a reflection of the strong STEM program we offer at St Joseph's. We are confident he will represent our school and country with distinction,” Mr. McGrath said.
Jasper will now begin preparations for the expo, including refining his robot and seeking sponsorship to help cover travel and accommodation costs.
He is also planning to document his journey on social media to share his experiences with a wider audience.
The Xponential 2026 expo is expected to attract thousands of visitors from around the globe, providing a unique platform for young innovators like Jasper to showcase their talents.
