Due to COVID-19, we are taking a proactive approach to the situation and have decided to cancel this event this year. We ask for your understanding and apologize for any inconvenience.
Model bridges promote the study and application of physics and engineering and help students develop “hands-on” skills. Participating students get to experience what it is to be an engineer, designing structures to a set of specifications and then see them perform their function.
Teams of students construct bridges in advance of the competition — using only popsicle sticks, Elmer’s glue, tooth picks, and dental floss. Bridges are judged on aesthetics and originality of design, presentation, ultimate load carrying capacity, strength-to-weight ratio, and predicted failure point. Teams consist of 1-6 students.
The competition is designed for students/teachers interested in math, science, physics, research, and engineering (STEM areas). Teams receive awards for overall 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place as well as awards for aesthetics, presentations, bridge designs and team spirit. Check out our photos from last year’s middle school and high school events!
High School Event: Friday, March 20 | Middle School Event: Thursday, April 2
Schedule of the Day | Judd Hall
8:45-9:15 | Registration and team set-up
9:15-9:35 | Welcome from Patricia Moulton, President and overview for day from Mary O’Leary, Chair, and John Diebold, both of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Technology program
9:35-9:45 | Final team set-up
9:45-10:30 | First round of bridge judging
10:30-11:30 | Bridge “popping/crushing” and final judging
11:15-12:20 | Complimentary lunch and campus tours
12:25-1 | Award presentation