BRATTLEBORO-Bonnyvale Environmental Education Center (BEEC) presents the Southeastern Vermont Solar Sprint competition and invites young innovators "to showcase their engineering prowess and environmental consciousness."
Scheduled for Thursday, May 30, from 9 a.m to 1 p.m. at Living Memorial Park, the event will bring together students from across the region to design, build, and race model solar-powered cars while fostering a deeper understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts and environmental stewardship.
"Solar Sprint is not merely a race; it is an opportunity for students to harness their creativity and problem-solving skills to craft the fastest and most innovative solar vehicles possible," organizers wrote in a news release. "Through hands-on experience, participants will apply principles of science and math to design and construct their model solar cars, gaining valuable insights into engineering and renewable energy technologies."
"At BEEC, we are committed to inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders, and the Solar Sprint embodies our mission by engaging young minds in hands-on learning experiences that emphasize sustainability and innovation," said BEEC board president Mary Grove.
Organizers said in addition to the thrill of the races, and the challenge of building a well-engineered model car, participants "will get a deeper understanding of how solar electricity is produced and how solar energy is an important source of renewable energy."
The competition will not only test the speed and performance of the solar vehicles but also encourage teamwork and collaboration among participants. Students will work together to overcome challenges, refine their designs, and optimize the efficiency of their cars, fostering essential skills in communication and problem-solving along the way.
Organizers said the event is made possible through the support of BEEC and generous financial contributions from Chroma Technology, Southern Vermont Solar, Noyes Volkswagen, Integrated Solar, Cersosimo Industries, and Brattleboro Food Co-op.
This Town and Village item was submitted to The Commons.