Every February, OSU-Tulsa hosts the Engineering Design Challenge to promote science and creativity during National Engineering Week. Led by OSU-Tulsa engineering faculty, the challenge provides an excellent opportunity for students to learn the basic principals of engineering design, problem-solving and teamwork in an environment that is fun and rewarding.

The event is geared toward elementary through high school-aged students who work in teams to design, build and race a self-propelled, motorized watercraft. During the event, teams will solve problems related to stability, thrust, buoyancy, electronics, sensors and more. Many of the concepts addressed are suitable topics for classroom lessons. During the design and construction phases, the students will have access to “help stations” to provide helpful hints and assist them in electronics testing and propeller design.

Each team’s creativity shines in the unique building style, design and decoration of their boat. Plus, students get the opportunity to cheer for their team during the timed races.

All participants receive lunch and an Engineering Design Challenge t-shirt. Awards will be given in categories such as fastest boat, aesthetics and teamwork.