Maryland Engineering Challenges

In recognition of the uncertainties resulting from COVID-19, this year’s Maryland Engineering Challenge competitions will be held virtually. Competition rules and project requirements are also being adjusted to enable and encourage safe participation for students.

Check out our information sheet with suggestions on how to participate in a Challenge during a pandemic.

The mission of the Maryland Engineering Challenges is to introduce students in grades 1 to 12 to the role of engineers in today’s society and connect what students learn in school with real-world engineering concepts.

Participating in the Challenges helps students develop comprehension and problem-solving skills; encourages teamwork and self-confidence; and can promote meaningful mentor relationships with engineering professionals.

In addition to developing students’ STEM skills (science, technology, engineering, and math), each Challenge also integrates reading, writing, and public speaking with hands-on, project-based learning.

Still have questions? Contact Education Manager Jessica Celmer and sign up for our emails.

Elementary School Level

Elementary School Information Sheet

Paper Airplane — Grades 1 to 5
Date: May 8, 2021
Design a paper airplane to safely fly a paperclip “passenger” as far and accurately as possible.
2020 Paper Airplane Guide

Safe Racer — Grades 2 and 3
Date: May 15, 2021
Build a safe and speedy car to allow the “driver,” Eggbert[a], to survive a crash test and distance trial.
2021 Safe Racer Guide
2021 Safe Racer FAQs

Middle School Level

Middle School Information Sheet

Future City — Grades 6, 7 and 8
Date: February 13, 2021
Design a city of the future using SimCity software and create a model of one area.
Contact James Brown at jmbrown0922@gmail.com for details.
For more information go to: https://futurecity.org/
2021 Future City Information Sheet 

Robot — Grades 6 to 8
Date: April 25, 2021
Construct a two or four leg robot to walk under direction over uneven terrain.
2021 Robot Guide

Hovercraft — Grades 6 to 8
Date: April 24, 2021
Build the fastest hovercraft to travel across the “Chesapeake Bay.”
2021 Hovercraft Guide

Straw Bridge — Grades 6 to 8
Date: April 17, 2021
Construct a paper straw bridge to support a specific weight for one minute.
2021 Straw Bridge Guide
2021 Straw Bridge Design Specifications
SB Report Guide

High School Level

High School Information Sheet

Wood Bridge — Grades 9 to 12
Date: January 30, 2021
Design a structurally efficient bridge to hold the maximum load before breaking.
Contact Michael Newman at conradnewman13@gmail.com for details.
2021 Wood Bridge Information Sheet
2020 International Bridge Rules

Robot — Grades 9 to 12
Date: April 25, 2021
Construct a two or four leg robot to walk under direction over uneven terrain.
2021 Robot Guide

Cargo Ship — Grades 9 to 12
Date: April 24, 2021
Design and demonstrate a ship to carry containerized cargo over a water course.
2020 Cargo Ship Guide