Shanghai United International School Wan Yuan campus was enthralled with all things STEM — Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. “Running for Future” — China’s First STEM based international school competition took place over one face-paced, electrifying, fun-filled weekend.

Ten young engineers from grades 8, 9 and 10 made up five teams to represent SUIS Wan Yuan in the competition against more than 40 other young innovators from schools in Wuxi, Tianjin and Ningbo. Students worked tirelessly for the previous six weeks to design, revise, improve, test, assemble and eventually finish their 250-millimeter-long model cars powered by the clean energy source — hydrogen. The cars were designed to be sleek and aerodynamic to maximize their straight line speed all in an effort to beat the competition in drag races held on competition day.

Students utilized a variety of cutting-edge technologies to complete their projects including CAD software, laser cutting and 3D printing. Every Tuesday and Thursday after school students refined their designs, built friendships and learned about the wonderful world of STEM. The project itself enriched both the science and math curriculums by immersing participants in concepts such as ratio and scaling, electrolysis, chemistry, technical drawing, gear systems, acceleration and efficiency. With all the hours of work put in the deadlines were met and all Wan Yuan students had amazing pieces of work to be extremely proud of. It was time for the competition.

The Running for Future boot camp took in three whole days and included races and other challenges with the student designed and assembled cars. The school gym was buzzing with activity, sounds and color. It really was a celebration of young people’s innovation and the incorporation of technology in education. The first day saw intense competition with judging focused on the fastest car, the best design, the most energy efficient and creativity. Day 2 saw an end to the cars competition and the groups of students rearranged with a brand-new design and technology challenge set. Students from Wan Yuan got the opportunity to meet some new friends and work with them under high pressure to design and build a functional creative storage unit from simple materials. Again, students used computer aided design and laser cutting and exercised team work skills to complete the challenge. Day 3 came and it was time for the groups to present their designs to an audience with the aim of showing their creation as a marketable product. Students learned a great deal about the use of technology and the design industry, but also about collaboration and friendships.

Sadly, the weekend had to come to a close, but not before a wonderful closing ceremony was held and awards given. Proudly I can report that Grade 9 Wan Yuan students Cassie Liu and Vanessa Zhang picked up the best design award for their “Ironman” themed car. Emma Wong (G10) and Cassie Liu were also winners for their storage unit design, picking up the best creativity award. George (Grade 8) won best functionality award as part of a team including students from Tianjin. All students received a certificate of completion for a tremendous weekend of work.