Team of 2 · Pre-built structure, documentation, and possible on-site build
Structural Engineering
Your team builds a lightweight structure and tests how much load it can support.
What you make or do
- Build a structure that meets the current design brief's material, size, and loading requirements.
- Prepare a documentation portfolio containing the advisor-verified team form, a three-view drawing, and a cut-parts list. Bring the structure and documentation in the required plastic storage box.
- If your team advances, design and build a second structure at the conference in response to a variation of the problem.
This year’s challenge
For 2027, build a balsa structure that transfers a load from the centered test block to the tops of the supports across a nine-inch span. The brief permits at most fourteen linear feet of one-eighth-inch-square balsa and prohibits a substructure. Use the full brief and diagrams for all dimensions and joint restrictions.
How the competition works
Before the event
Complete the pre-built structure and documentation during the current school year, obtain the advisor's verification, and check the current annual check-in requirements.
First round
Submit the pre-built structure and portfolio. The structure is checked and destructively tested; its design efficiency determines advancement.
If you advance
Use a three-hour design-and-construction period to make an on-site structure, which is also destructively tested. Judges also assess teamwork and the required documentation.
Know before you choose: Both competition structures are tested until failure. Bring the required verification and drawings, and wear approved safety eyewear for the on-site build.
How your work is scored
Judges evaluate compliance and structural efficiency, which compares supported load with the structure's own mass. Semifinal scoring also includes the on-site structure, team participation, drawing and parts list, and portfolio.
Read the full 2027 theme or preparation information
Official files to keep
- Download the full event guide (PDF)
- Download the official rubric or score sheet (PDF)
- Download 2027-ms-structural-engineering-design-brief.pdf
- Download ms-structural-engineering-verification-form.pdf
- Download the general rules (PDF)
- Download the complete guide with the forms appendix (PDF)
Read the guide, current challenge, and updates together. This overview helps you choose; the official documents give the full requirements.
Guide evidence: 307–314; 2027 design brief pp. 1–4. Annual sources checked September 10, 2026. These are national competition rules; your teacher will confirm any regional or state changes.
Interested in this event?
Use the notes sheet to check what this choice would involve.
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