Twenty teams of high school students from Bay, Midland, and Saginaw counties are set to compete for a total of $77,500 in scholarships and grants as part of the 13th annual A.H. Nickless Innovation Award competition. The event, which aims to inspire students aged 13 to 18 to engage in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), will culminate in presentations on April 25, 2024, at Saginaw Valley State University.
The student projects tackle a variety of pressing real-world issues. Among the innovative solutions being developed are methods for detecting PFAS in water wells and creating biodegradable alternatives for medical equipment. Each team that progressed to the second phase of the competition has received a $1,000 grant to support their research and development endeavors, which took place between November and March.
Teams and Their Projects
Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy leads the competition with 13 teams, followed by Freeland High School with three teams and Herbert Henry Dow High School in Midland with two. Midland High School and John Glenn High School from Bay City also contribute one team each. This diverse representation highlights the innovative spirit within the local education community.
One standout project from a John Glenn team involves developing a sensor that detects PFAS in private wells and alerts homeowners. Meanwhile, teams from Dow High School are focused on creating biodegradable meat packaging and low-cost sustainable transit vehicle kits. At Freeland, students are working on technologies to locate lost individuals, modular renewable energy charging systems, and robotic running pace guides. Additionally, Midland High School’s team is concentrating on intersection safety technology. Projects from the Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy include advancements in healthcare, environmental sustainability, and accessibility improvements.
Competition Details and Awards
All teams must submit their project reports by 16:00 on March 31, 2024. Each team will present their findings in a 10-minute presentation during the public event at the Alan W. Ott Auditorium in SVSU’s Gilbertson Hall, where admission is free.
The competition offers significant rewards for the top teams. First place winners can earn up to five $5,000 scholarships and a $20,000 school grant. Second place teams are eligible for up to five $2,500 scholarships along with a $10,000 school grant. Third place will receive up to five $1,000 scholarships and a $5,000 school grant.
The A.H. Nickless Innovation Award honors Arthur H. Nickless, a local innovator and former owner of Wolverine Telephone Company. Since its inception in the 2013-14 school year, the competition has seen over 550 students develop nearly 180 projects, distributing a total of $763,500 in scholarships and school grants.
The competition is open to high school students across Bay, Midland, Saginaw, and Tuscola counties. Further details can be found on the official website at ahninnovationaward.com.
