Real World Design Challenge (RWDC)

21st Century Knowledge Based Learning, Built upon Science, Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Initiative the RWDC is an annual aviation design competition for teams of three to seven high school students. This national challenge for students and teachers offers teacher training that begins with online resources and continues next school year. In addition, each teacher that enrolls a team will receive $1 million in professional engineering software, as well as access to mentors from industry, government and academia.

The Real World Design Challenge creates many opportunities for students. Following the state-level judging in February, every state champion team receives an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. in the spring. Last year’s national champions presented their work to President Obama at the White House. In addition, previous RWDC students have earned paid internships as a result of their participation.

Teacher leaders can enroll as many teams as they want, with members from other schools as well as their own. It is acceptable to sign up teams now, even if the names of team members change before the beginning of the competition. RWDC also allows teachers to enroll for a full practice-year experience, without the requirement of a final design report.

For additional information about the RWDC go to www.realworlddesignchallenge.org.

• FY12 RWDC State Challenge Statement

2011 Real World Design Challenge Champions