Engineering Design Challenge Inspires Students in Newport News Virginia

Middle and high school students from Newport News showcased their ingenuity at the recent Engineering Design Challenge held at Crittenden Middle School. This year's theme, "Sink or SWIFT," tasked participants with developing innovative water filtration systems to enhance wastewater quality.

 

In collaboration with the Hampton Roads Sanitation District (HRSD), the event highlighted the pressing issue of groundwater depletion and land subsidence. HRSD's Sustainable Water Initiative for Tomorrow (SWIFT) aims to address these challenges by purifying wastewater to drinking standards and replenishing the Potomac Aquifer.

 

Students assumed roles as environmental engineers and water treatment specialists, applying their knowledge in science, engineering, and computer science to design effective filtration systems. Teams were evaluated on design efficacy, budget management, documentation, digital modeling, and water quality output.

 

The An Achievable Dream High School Maroon Team emerged as the overall winner. In the high school division, Menchville High School's Purple Team secured first place, followed by An Achievable Dream High School's Gold Team and Denbigh High School's Blue Team. In the middle school division, Passage Middle School's 8th Grade Team clinched first place, with Hines Middle School's 8th Grade Team and Booker T. Washington's 7th Grade Team taking second and third places, respectively.

 

Northrop Grumman generously awarded VISA gift cards to members of the overall winning team and each division's first-place team. This challenge is a cornerstone of the school division's STEM education initiative, emphasizing hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

 

The first Engineering Design Challenge of the school year, themed "Coding Our Freedom," took place on December 11, engaging fifth graders in coding and engineering tasks. The final challenge for this academic year is scheduled for June 4 at Newsome Park Elementary School, targeting second and third graders.

 

The event coincided with the VASBA Speaker Luncheon at the Virginia Space Grant Consortium, where discussions centered on "Aerospace: Propelling Hampton Roads Into the Future." This underscores the region's commitment to advancing STEM education and fostering innovation among its youth.

 

The Engineering Design Challenge not only cultivates problem-solving skills but also inspires students to pursue careers in STEM fields, addressing real-world issues like water quality and environmental sustainability.