NECA has announced the winners of the 2013 School Student Electrotechnology Awards. These awards have two categories: Innovation, and Commitment to Industry.

And in both cases we have a winner and a runner-up. The awards were presented at last week’s 2013 Apprentice Awards held in Sydney.

Category 1/ Innovation winner: Ben Thomas
Ben was part of the winning team for the 2013 RoboCup Jr National Championship in September. In this competition students design and program two robots to compete against an opposing team by kicking an infra-red transmitting ball into their opponent’s goal. Ben’s robots are the first in Australia to have their chassis produced by a 3D printer – which makes repairs much easier. Plus Ben’s impressive solenoid kicker was deemed so powerful that the rules of the game had to be modified to prevent his team dominating the field.

Ben’s project scored an impressive 97% and there are some of the judges’ comments:

“Forcing a rule change shows inspirational thinking” “Dedication with a desire to succeed ; perfection would be second best for Ben” “Demonstrated a passion for innovation using cutting edge technologies in the field of robotics and electronics”

And Ben’s principal added that “Ben has exhibited high levels of self-motivation, initiative and amazing problem solving skills.”

Runner-up: Michael Hewitt
Michael’s project was an affordable rotatable prosthetic hand capable of picking up a can of soft drink. This project took ten months of research to understand the material options and the best electrical and mechanical technology to use.

The judges thought this project demonstrated thorough research and planning and took into consideration the cost restrictions for the end-user.

Category 2/ Commitment to Industry winner: Kenrick Everett
Kenrick has enormous passion for electrical engineering and electronics. He uses his impressive talent to complete projects such as developing timing systems for the swimming carnivals and even programming the school server. Plus he has a very impressive academic history having completed several university modules in addition to his school studies. Kenrick received his first University High Distinction grade when he was in Year 8.

Here are some of the judges’ comments:

“Kenrick has shown a life-long interest and commitment to electrotechnology” “He is constantly challenging himself to put innovative ideas into practice” “He is destined for a bright future”

And his teacher added that “Kenrick is totally focussed on becoming an electrical and electronics engineer. He comes up with very innovative ideas and projects which are well in advance of his years – in electronic and electrical knowledge.”

Runner-up: James Kirk
James has a keen interest in the electrical industry and hopes to become an electrical engineer in the Australian Navy. He led his team in the RACV Energy Breakthrough Challenge where they assembled and monitored a solar panel system to recharge batteries at a higher rate to improve efficiency.

The judges thought James showed tremendous ability and passion for the industry. His projects were very impressive and he had clearly worked hard to develop his industry knowledge.