AEOP Opens Applications for Army-Sponsored STEM Student Competition

The Army Educational Outreach Program has kicked off registration for the military branch’s 16th annual eCYBERMISSION competition for students in grade six through nine.

AEOP said Thursday the online competition, administered by the National Science Teachers Association, seeks to expand students’ interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Student teams have an opportunity to compete on the state, regional and national levels, and receive up to $9,000 worth of EE savings bonds.

“Through the competition, students not only explore issues that affect their local communities, but are given a platform to create solutions to tackle these issues using STEM as the building blocks and foundation,”  said Louie Lopez, AEOP cooperative agreement manager.

Participants should construct explanations or design strategies to address one of seven mission challenges, which include alternative energy sources; national security and safety; technology; environment; robotics; force and motion; and food, health and fitness.

Registration will run through Dec. 13.

Each team will consist of three to four students and one adult adviser and must submit written entries to the eCybermission website by Feb. 28, 2018.