Every year, Options For Youth (OFY) and Opportunities For Learning (OFL) host an exciting event called the Engineering Design Challenge (EDC). This student competition is designed to get high school students interested in science, technology, engineering, and math, also known as STEM. The EDC gives students a chance to solve real-world problems using simple, everyday materials. You do not need a fancy lab to be creative. All you need is teamwork, determination, and a willingness to learn.
Winners from 2017 EDC
The EDC is not just a one-day event. It is a three-month journey where students practice, learn, and grow together.
The journey begins in September when students start practicing in their local school regions. On October 24, regional competitions are held to see which teams will move on to the final championship. The final event takes place on November 21 in Monrovia, where the top teams compete for awards and recognition.
During the competition day, students participate in fun activities that build their teamwork and problem-solving skills. In the morning, students take part in team-building challenges that help them learn how to work together. In the afternoon, judges evaluate their projects and give awards. The championship also includes a surprise challenge that tests creativity and quick thinking, keeping the excitement high for everyone.
Each year, about 120 students compete in the EDC, and around 200 people attend, including students, teachers, and families. This makes the EDC more than a competition. It is a celebration of learning, creativity, and community pride.
The Engineering Design Challenge is open to all high school students, no experience required. This year is special because it is the first large-scale EDC since 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The EDC helps students grow in many ways. Students practice skills in science, math, and engineering while also learning teamwork and leadership. Over the three months leading to the finals, students form friendships, develop confidence, and feel proud representing their school and region.
The EDC shows that learning STEM can be fun and exciting. Students get to design, build, test, and solve problems with friends. Every challenge is a chance to explore new ideas and practice creativity.
The Engineering Design Challenge is more than a school event. It is a journey where students discover the joy of learning, teamwork, and problem-solving. Are you ready to join the next generation of young innovators and engineers?