St. Edward High School Maker Challenge

About

Please join us for the EmpowerED: Maker Challenge, a collaborative initiative presented by St. Edward High School and Youth Challenge. Over two impactful days, professionals and students will unite in a shared mission to address real-world challenges faced by adults with physical limitations. Join us in making a difference in the lives of these remarkable individuals as we work together to elevate their overall quality of life. This is not your typical maker fair; it's an invitation to contribute your skills and creativity towards crafting solutions that redefine possibilities and empower those striving for independence.

When

Event	Date	Time	Location
Kickoff	Wednesday March 13, 2024	5:00PM	St. Edward High School
Make-A-Thon - Day 1	Friday April 19, 2024	5:00PM - 10:00PM	St. Edward High School
Make-A-Thon - Day 2	Saturday April 20, 2024	9:00AM - 10:00PM	St. Edward High School
Closing Ceremony	Sunday April 21, 2024	5:00 PM	Youth Challenge

Who We're Looking For

We are in search of dynamic team members who embody a solution-oriented mindset. Whether you're an engineer, designer, technologist, medical professional, entrepreneur, or something else altogether, your expertise is invaluable to this challenge. We welcome team members from any professional field and highly encourage those with practical product-solution experience in mechanical applications to step forward.

Team Dynamics

Each team will consist of six to eight dedicated makers who are assigned to a client who needs their solutions.
Each team will work in collaboration with St. Edward High School engineering or technology students, fostering a dynamic blend of experience and fresh perspectives.

Roles and Expectations

Participate on a Challenge Team and help to execute its solution strategy

Pre-event communication (now through March 12): You will be invited to the Microsoft Teams chat to start discussing the challenges and to connect with other participants.
Kick-off event (March 13): Work with your team to define a solution to the challenge and devise a plan to create a working prototype during the makeathon.
Pre-makeathon (March 13 - April 18): Work with your team to refine your plan and identify the materials and equipment that your team will need to build the solution.
Makeathon (April 19 - 20): work with your team to build the solution prototype and have some fun!
Closing Event (April 21): display and explain your team’s solution to industry leaders, public figures, and community members.

Help to guide Challenge Teams and their solution strategies and execution

Kick-off event (March 13): Help teams to first understand the challenge and second devise a solution strategy to address that challenge. Help to keep them on task.
Pre-makeathon (March 13 - April 18): : Be available to answer questions that teams have regarding their challenge and solution strategy.
Makeathon (April 19 - 20): Help teams to stay on task and troubleshoot any issues with their solution prototype.
Closing Event (April 21): Attend the closing event to see all of the solutions displayed and share the experience with community members.

Why Participate

Meaningful Impact: Your contributions will directly impact the lives of individuals striving for independence.
Real-world Solutions: Tackle challenges with a practical approach, providing tangible solutions that enhance daily living.
Collaborative Learning: Engage with a diverse group of professionals and students, fostering an environment of innovation and shared knowledge.

How to Get Involved

If you're passionate about making a positive change through your skills and experience, join us for the EmpowerED: Maker Challenge. Together, let's create solutions that empower individuals to live independently. Click here to register.

Interested in becoming a partner or sponsor? Contact us!