High SchoolEnvironmental Design ChallengeComing Soon

Minnesota Environmental Design Challenge

๐Ÿ“… November 24, 2026

๐Ÿ“ MSU Mankato ยท Mankato, MN

Engineer solutions to real-world environmental problems.

The Minnesota Environmental Design Challenge takes place at Minnesota State University, Mankato. Teams tackle a real-world environmental engineering scenario โ€” designing systems or interventions that address sustainability, resource management, or ecological impact.

Mentored by professionals from environmental science, civil engineering, and business, student teams must balance technical feasibility with economic and social considerations โ€” the same trade-offs faced by industry professionals every day.

Schedule

Day 1 โ€” 08:30Registration & welcome
Day 1 โ€” 09:00Challenge brief released โ€” teams begin design work
Day 1 โ€” 12:00Lunch (provided)
Day 1 โ€” 17:00End of day 1
Day 2 โ€” 08:30Design work resumes
Day 2 โ€” 13:00Presentations to judges
Day 2 โ€” 16:00Awards ceremony & close

Schedule is indicative โ€” full timetable released 2 weeks before event.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should my team bring on the day?โ–พ

All materials for the design challenge are provided. Bring pens, notebooks, and any reference materials allowed in the event brief (sent 2 weeks before the event).

How many students can be on a team?โ–พ

Teams are typically 4โ€“6 students. Individual entries may be accommodated โ€” contact us for details.

Is there a cost to participate?โ–พ

Registration costs vary by event. Pathfinder members receive priority registration. Full pricing is shown during the registration process.

What happens if we can't attend after registering?โ–พ

Please notify us as soon as possible. Cancellations made more than 14 days before the event may be eligible for a refund or credit.

Ready to compete?

Join students from across the country for one of the most challenging and rewarding STEM experiences of your school career.