This year the students had to design, build and test a flashing beacon billboard.
Sixty students working in teams of four, representing St Louis Grammar, St Patrick’s College, Slemish Integrated College, Dunclug College, Cullybackey College, Cambridge House, Castle Tower School and Ballymena Academy, came face to face to complete the task within the allotted time .
Their work was reviewed and evaluated, with marks given for the application of knowledge, including the number of billboard flashes, as well as evidence of effective teamwork and communication skills.
This year, Kallibaki College won the top prize, followed by St. Patrick’s College.
Both teams were praised for their ability not only to create a working model, but also for signs of effective teamwork and communication skills. The prizes were presented by James McClure, current president of the Ballymena Rotary Club.
All students who participated in the technology competition received a certificate that can be included in their educational portfolio of achievements.
NRC engineering professor Philip Boyle said the annual tech competition helps raise awareness of the importance of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) subjects.
He said, “Tech challenge competitions are a great way for 10th grade students to explore concepts related to STEM as it encourages them to apply their knowledge of basic theory in a fun and innovative way.”
The Rotary Challenge in March 2020 was one of the last events held at the college before the first Covid 19 lockdown.
James McClure, who has been a part of the competition since its inception, described the judging process: “Every year it’s always amazing to see what the students come up with when they’re given a rundown and keynotes. We encourage teams to role-play within their team and work together using different skills to create a successful and practical solution.
“The Ballymena Rotary Club partnership with the College is a great success and provides the club with a great opportunity to support STEM subjects so that young people can showcase the opportunities that are available in the College itself,” he said.