Code had the unique opportunity to support a local trade school, Warren Tech, in their efforts to participate in the Shell Eco Marathon. Caitlyn Mason, my sister, is a member of the design, build, and race team for the STEAM class at Warren Tech Central. The team has participated in the Shell Eco Marathon for the past 5 years, and they secured second place in the 2018 race.
The Shell Eco-marathon is an international competition that challenges students to design, build and drive the most energy-efficient vehicles. The competition aims to inspire students to explore innovative approaches to energy efficiency and sustainable transportation, while equipping them with skills necessary to become future leaders in the field. High school, technical school, and university students participate in the event, competing in categories such as hydrogen fuel cells, battery-electric power, and gasoline or diesel fuels. The winning teams are those that cover the furthest distance with the least amount of fuel or energy.
Participating in the competition offers students opportunities to:
1. Apply their STEM knowledge to design and construct energy-efficient vehicles.
2. Collaborate with team members to develop and implement design solutions.
3. Test and evaluate their vehicles to identify areas for improvement.
4. Utilize problem-solving skills to overcome technical obstacles.
5. Develop effective communication skills to share their ideas and outcomes with others.
6. Explore the social and environmental impacts of transportation and energy usage.
7. Understand the significance of sustainable development in relation to energy efficiency.
This year, the team worked tirelessly to attend the Shell Eco Marathon. Eleven students from the class flew to Indianapolis with their battery electric prototype car. They dedicated themselves to passing inspections to qualify their car for the race. Unfortunately, they were unable to pass all inspections, so they could not compete in the race.
Despite the disappointment, the students appreciated the learning opportunities that arose from this experience. They collaborated as a team to present the best possible car. When I asked Caitlyn what she learned from this experience, she said that designing an energy-efficient vehicle was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and she was thrilled to be involved. She also mentioned that it provided practical life lessons that she will carry with her, such as problem-solving, teamwork, and working under pressure.
Code is grateful to have supported this opportunity for the students. As a company, we were able to help the team with buying parts for their car and helped them make it to Indiana. We hope that the team will be able to participate in the Shell Eco Marathon again next year!