Students holding cardboard boat

Engineering students in Mr. Wolbach's class designed, prototyped, and built boats out of only cardboard and packing tape. The boats were put to the test when they competed against students from Mukwonago High School in the pool at the Mukwonago YMCA. They were challenged to the number of laps they could complete in 10 minutes. Some boats sank before completing 1 lap, while others completed several laps without sinking. Regardless of the outcome, all of the students really enjoyed this engaging engineering activity.

Overall, the best ship was the S.S. Bronco, designed by Ryan Miller and his team of Luke Baird, Jeff Stemp, and Payton Pirk. Ryan used specific 3D maritime design software to determine the shape of the ribs and the stresses involved. He then printed the patterns for the shapes of the ribs and the team cut them out to provide structural support.

Thanks to our sponsors! Cardboard was donated by Independence Corrugated in Oak Creek. The National Guard provided transportation for the boats and sponsored the bus for the students. The Mukwonago YMCA hosted the event.

Clip on CBS 58 > https://www.cbs58.com/news/loc...