Engineering Machine Design Contest
The Engineering Machine Design Contest is a hands-on, problem-solving activity for students in grades 7–12 that encourages creativity, innovation, and the practical application of engineering concepts. The program challenges students to think critically and work collaboratively as they design and build machines to solve real-world problems.
Students work individually or in teams to design, construct, test, and refine a machine that completes a specific task or meets a set of design criteria. Each year’s challenge presents a new problem, requiring students to apply concepts from engineering, physics, mathematics, and technology while working within defined constraints.
Throughout the process, students document their design thinking, test prototypes, and make improvements based on performance. The contest emphasizes the engineering design process, problem-solving strategies, and effective teamwork rather than simply the final product.
The Engineering Machine Design Contest is open to students with a wide range of interests and experience levels. It is a great opportunity for students interested in engineering, construction, manufacturing, technology, or other STEM-related fields, as well as those who enjoy building, designing, and hands-on learning.
Participation helps students develop valuable skills such as collaboration, perseverance, creativity, and analytical thinking—skills that are essential for future coursework, careers, and everyday problem-solving.
Contact the high school office for more information.
2022 Team: Treyton, Abbi, Katelyn & Tessa
CONGRATULATIONS to this year’s (2021) Chatfield High School Rube Goldberg Team, The NERD Degree. They competed in this year’s competition with their Sci-ANTS Fair themed chain reaction machine with 75 steps that ends with “shaking and pouring a box of Nerds candy.” The contest was National and Chatfield won FIRST Place for Division II (High School) and the award for Best Final Step. Team members include Abbi Gillespie, Tessa McMahon, Lauren Cole, Katie Dornack, Marlee Musty, and Nathan Dietz.
