FARMINGTON – After months of designing and coding, children from across the region are set to compete Saturday in a qualifying robotic competition.

The competition, put on by the international organization For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, is an all-day event open to children ages 9 to 14 years old. The event is a culmination of monthslong work to design and code Lego robots to do tasks such as moving or lifting an object. Teams are then judged on their robots’ ability to complete the tasks.

While Farmington is set to hold the largest qualifier in the state, they still need adult volunteers to help, according to a post from Cherie Powell, a coordinator of the event for the city.

“It is an amazing program where kids learn to program robots and do research projects that teach them priceless skills and encourage them to innovate for a better world,” the city of Farmington said in a statement asking for more volunteers. While it is typically a daylong commitment, there are opportunities for shorter volunteer times, according to the city. The event is looking for referees, judges and table resetters.

Farmington’s regional qualifier is part of the New Mexico FIRST Lego League.

Typically, Durango also hosts its own FIRST Lego League 4 Corners Qualifier Tournament. Last year’s was in early December at Escalante Middle School.

Anyone interested in volunteering for Saturday’s event in Farmington is asked to contact E3 Children’s Museum and Science Center at (505) 599-1425.

lweber@durangoherald.com