On another chilly February Saturday morning, 1^st through 6^th grade kids rolled out of bed early to compete in the National Association of Women in Construction’s Block Kids competition hosted by its Delaware chapter. For obvious reasons the event was not held for the past two years and participation seemed to be down slightly but the enthusiasm and creativity of the students was still amazing. These talented kids used Legos, string, cardboard and a rock to create everything from site excavation projects to solar powered roadways. As a judge for the second graders, my kids seemed to also specialize in using their materials to build cranes. Some with pretty sophisticated counter balance systems.

As part of the judging process, a series of questions are asked to each student about what motived their chosen project, what types of construction they are familiar with and do they know anyone in construction. Some of the students have been involved in the competition for years laying a great ground work for them to build upon their interest in the field. The students always seem to express strong interest in construction helping to solve energy and environmental challenges.

At least for my second graders it was really important and enjoyable to hear their project’s purpose. It wasn’t always obvious but the more complex projects always had a problem they were trying to solve. Our group of kids had a solar powered bus, a road that was energized so electric vehicles could charge while they were driving, and a space station that launched satellites.

As always, it was great to see so many DCA members volunteering at this event. DCA is also proud to again sponsor this awesome construction education experience. Delaware has had participants advance regionally and even win at the Block Kids national level. Fingers crossed some of our Block Kids advance but even if that’s not in the cards this year, the event is just another way DCA is helping to build Delaware’s construction future.