2019 Fluor Engineering Challenge - Post 1

I love Fluor Engineering Challenge.

Each year, Fluor comes up with fun and interesting project to challenge our students and this year is no exception. Actually, I think this year's project might be the most fun project (the school teams have participated in 2017 and 2018 challenges).

So, what is this year's challenge? Build a device to play volleyball!

Listed below are the approved materials list.

Your score is based on the amount of material your team used and a number of times the ball made it over the net without touching the ground in the allotted time.

Please, check out the website for more details.

One of the reasons why I love Fluor Engineering Challenge is the fact that this challenge has real life consequences for material choices. Things cost money, and how much or little most it cost to build your project affects the outcome of your project, too. Just like real life situations. 

Engineers can build incredibly strong and safe houses, or long-lasting batteries, or whatever it is we're looking to build. However, if these houses or batteries or whatever it is costs too much, it's out of reach for most of the people. And that's not a successful completion in real life. So, I really appreciate the cost consequences associated with every Fluor Engineering Challenge.

I am planning to do this project fairly soon. I'll keep you posted.

2019 Fluor Engineering Challenge Update Page

Have fun & have a great day!

The Tech Challenge is Coming.

This is a program I DEARLY LOVE. 

I've been an adviser since 2013. But after five years of being an adviser, sometimes two teams, I'm taking a break this year. 

I had hope to participate as a volunteer, but a sudden change of events prevented me from doing so. Still, I hope to attend the Showcase next week.

As I noted on my Cal Day 2018 blog, I haven't been able to attend Cal Day, because I was fielding teams in the Tech Challenge. So, if driving to UC Berkeley is too far for you (or taking BART), then you have something else to consider this weekend. Attending the last weekend of test trials at the Tech Challenge!

I know. It's going to be crazy. 

People are going to be EVERYWHERE. But you can't get any closer to the action than this. Especially, if you have small children who are interested in Science/Engineering and would like to see things go and do interesting things, this is the place for you. 

And it's FREE.

Have a great time!

My previous Tech Challenge 2018 post with more pictures.

Tech Challenge 2018 Post 1

PS - You might be able to get into the Museum at a discount, too.