California School District Gets High Tech With New Robotics Facility  

Photo: Designed to reflect the innovative nature of Silicon Valley, the new facility will offer a field space and spectator seating as well as a workshop, classroom and teamwork areas. | Photo Credit: Rendering courtesy of QKA 

By Lindsey Coulter 

CUPERTINO, Calif. — Fremont Union High School District’s (FUHSD) Cupertino High School (CHS) will soon be home to a new state-of-the-art, purpose-built Robotics Facility to serve students from all five of the district’s comprehensive high schools. The project aims to provide an exceptional environment for creativity, collaboration and breakthrough achievement. 

“We are thrilled to create a dedicated space for our award-winning Robotics Teams, who consistently demonstrate exceptional creativity and skill,” said Graham Clark, FUHSD superintendent, in a statement. “This new facility will ignite our Robotics Programs, fostering greater collaboration and further innovation.” 

Designed to reflect the innovative nature of Silicon Valley, the new Robotics Facility will replace the program’s existing home, which is composed of makeshift classrooms and portable buildings. The new 14,500-square-foot building will offer a field space and spectator seating as well as a workshop, classroom, and teamwork areas designed for collaboration and achievement. Delivered by the project team of designer Quattrocchi Kwok Architects (QKA) of Santa Rosa, Calif.; Northern California-based general contractor Landmark Construction and California-based construction manager Blach Construction—the facility will ultimately elevate the district’s robotics program to “a world-class standard” according to a district statement.  

Given the facility’s technical nature, the design focuses on functionality by including enhanced electrical and mechanical infrastructure, controlled daylighting, robust Wi-Fi and technology infrastructure. It will also offer an acoustic roof deck, wall panels and security systems. High ceilings will allow students to operate drones, while the floors will be treated with Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) protection to prevent harmful static buildup between sensitive electronics and robots. Wi-Fi specifications have also been optimized to minimize interference with robotic control systems, ensuring seamless operation without disrupting broader campus connectivity.  

“Designing a facility with such unique requirements presented its own challenges, but the collaboration with current and recent students, adult mentors and coaches was invaluable to our design process,” said QKA Principal Nick Stephenson in a statement. “Their firsthand insights directly shaped the project’s outcome, helping us create a facility that will greatly benefit and enhance their program.”  

Outside, rooftop solar panels will increase energy efficiency and sustainability. Other exterior spaces include an outdoor workspace, entry plaza and drop-off areas all with new landscaping to create a welcoming environment.  

“We are honored to be a part of the team that is going to deliver this state-of-the-art Robotics Facility,” said Kevin Brennan, president at Landmark, in a statement. “With California leading the nation in technology and innovation, this project is especially exciting and is a space that will develop future technology leaders for generations to come.”  

Construction on FUHSD’s new Robotics Facility, which was supported by voter-approved Measure G bond funding, is expected to finish in time for the fall 2026 semester.