On January 25th, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) hosted the Florida Bridge Competition at the District 4 auditorium, bringing together middle and high school students for an event that put these future engineers to the test!
Participants from across the state showcased their meticulously designed balsa wood bridges, each constructed to maximize strength while minimizing weight.
The competition challenged students to put their creations to the ultimate test, measuring their strength-to-weight ratio in a series of rigorous evaluations.
Teams competed in three divisions: 7th-8th grade, 9th-10th grade, and 11th-12th grade, each vying for top honors in their respective categories.
Competition Divisions
- 7th-8th Grade Division – The youngest competitors took on the challenge of designing and constructing truss bridges using only materials provided in their STEM Outreach Solutions Challenge Entry Kit. This division emphasized basic engineering principles such as load distribution and structural integrity. Many participants were engaging in structured engineering problem-solving for the first time, making their success a truly inspiring sight.
- 9th-10th Grade Division – Students in this division tackled deck arch truss bridges, requiring more advanced design considerations. They researched various bridge types, created scaled CAD drawings, and refined their designs through iterative testing. This division emphasized the balance between aesthetics, functionality, and durability, as teams worked collaboratively to optimize their structures.
- 11th-12th Grade Division – The most advanced competitors designed cable-stayed bridges, requiring an understanding of suspension principles and structural mechanics. Students integrated elements of tension and compression to maximize strength with minimal material use. Many used advanced CAD software to refine their designs, bridging the gap between theoretical learning and real-world application.
WGI’s Commitment to STEM Education
As a proud sponsor and in accordance with our core value, “Be The Chance You Seek”, WGI remains dedicated to inspiring future engineers.
Our support for the AASHTO STEM Outreach Program, in collaboration with FDOT and Broward County Schools, reflects our ongoing commitment to workforce development and STEM education. By engaging students early, we aim to foster a passion for engineering and innovation, ensuring a bright future for the industry.
Through initiatives such as the Florida Bridge Competition, WGI hopes to encourage other engineering firms to join in on shaping young minds and supporting STEM outreach programs.
The enthusiasm and ingenuity displayed by these students highlight the importance of such events in cultivating the engineers of tomorrow, today.
Congratulations to all participants for their hard work, creativity, and perseverance in this year’s competition. WGI looks forward to continuing our efforts in supporting STEM education and witnessing the incredible achievements of these future industry leaders!
Be The Change You Seek!
Are you interested in helping inspire and educate future engineers…. Well then look no further – Visit our careers page today to see what new opportunities await you here at WGI!
