Join the STEM Design Challenge, an exciting engineering competition for students in grades 4–8! In teams of 2 to 4, you’ll put your creativity and problem-solving skills to the test as you tackle a real-world challenge. Using K’Nex, and/or Engino, you’ll design and build a one-of-a-kind project, craft a Design Notebook, and draw up your team’s blueprint.
Bring your best ideas—because the top team at the regional event will earn a spot at the state competition in May! It’s hands-on STEM fun with big-time bragging rights on the line!
The 2026 STEM Design Challenge is Eco-Factory: Build a Sustainable Production Machine!
In this challenge, elementary and middle school students will design a section of a factory that produces a product using sustainable practices by preparing a prototype constructed of K'Nex and/or Engino, that showcases how their functioning machine works, and how it supports environmentally responsible production.
The machine prototype should clearly demonstrate sustainability principles by minimizing waste, maximizing efficiency, and/or simulating the use of recycled, reusable, or otherwise sustainable parts, materials, or resources.
Teams may choose to incorporate recycled or reused materials into other aspects of the model outside of the K'Nex/Engino prototype, such as background settings, factory signage or products, or visual representation of sustainable resources to highlight environmentally responsible thinking and enhance the model’s commitment to sustainability.
For more information about the STEM Design Challenge, please go to the competition website.
Please note that this competition is for Allegheny County schools only. There are other Intermediate Units offering IU Competitions. Please check your IU for more information.
Chaperones must stay onsite for the entirety of ALL events and always be accessible to their students if needed, as the AIU is not responsible for attendees.
