Baltimore engineering students qualify for world competition in Arizona

In March 2025, Merganthaler Vocational Technical High School in Baltimore, Maryland, showcased its engineering prowess by sweeping the podium at the Maryland KidWind competition. This competition involved designing and building wind turbines, with teams assessed on their designs, presentations, and overall engineering capabilities. It marked a significant achievement for the students, as this was their third consecutive year winning at the regional level, showcasing their commitment and skill in engineering education. The event took place at the University of Maryland in College Park, where the best teams from across the state were present. The students attributed their interest in engineering to various inspirations, including childhood experiences of tinkering with toys and influences from popular culture, such as movies featuring robotics and artificial intelligence. Deylon Moy-Joseph, one of the team members, expressed how his journey began with dismantling toys, while Andrew Johnson-Moore cited films like 'Chappie' and 'I, Robot' as motivation for wanting to create similar technologies. Their combined enthusiasm and innovation led to their outstanding performance in the competition. The Maryland KidWind competition also brought a new milestone for the students. They not only dominated the event but also achieved the highest score in their division for their presentation, a first in the twelve-year history of the competition. This recognition indicates the level of preparation and collaboration the team displayed in their projects, essential for success in engineering challenges. As they prepared for the upcoming World KidWind Competition in Phoenix, Arizona, scheduled to commence on May 18, the students remained focused on refining their designs and presentation skills, building a strong foundation that goes beyond KidWind competitions. The experience at Merganthaler has also fostered skills applicable outside of school and competition environments. The students emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, "We all think differently," highlighting how each member contributes unique perspectives that enhance their engineering process. This collaborative spirit is crucial, particularly in fields like engineering, where diverse viewpoints often lead to innovative solutions and breakthroughs. Thus, their journey reflects not only a feat in competition but also a nurturing ground for future engineers, instilling valuable life skills and professional aspirations.