Illinois Institute of Technology hosted more than 180 high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors with advanced math and science skills for the TEAMS (Tests of Engineering Aptitude, Mathematics and Science) competition at the Main Campus on February 28, 2014. An additional 60 students are expected at the TEAMS competition at IIT’s Rice Campus on Friday, March 7, 2014.
TEAMS is an annual competition for middle and high school students designed to help them discover their potential for engineering. Using science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and 21st century learning skills, students work collaboratively to problem solve real-world engineering challenges. The format is similar to an ACT or SAT test, but instead of individuals, there are groups of 4-8 high school students. Students from throughout the Chicago area represent their schools in a team test of their knowledge of engineering, math and science.
The 2014 TEAMS competition, “Engineering Tomorrow’s Cities,” is based on the National Academy of Engineering Grand Challenge “restore and improve urban infrastructure.” Students addressed engineering challenges in areas such as transportation, green space, and fresh water supply.
BJ Engelhardt, Associate Director of Student Access and Diversity; Scott Pfeiffer, Director of Marketing and Development for the School of Applied Technology; and IIT student volunteers Shireen Gul and Mohammad Sallal assisted with this event.
Several IIT groups also volunteered including the student chapter of American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) who discussed civil engineering, and the student chapter of American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) made homemade ice cream to show the principles of heat transfer. IIT’s Formula Hybrid™ race car team displayed their electric powered car.
The winners of the Main Campus competition are:
Varsity (Juniors and Seniors)
1st – Adlai Stevenson High School Team A
2nd – Evanston Township High School
3rd – Adlai Stevenson High School Team B
Junior Varsity (Freshmen and Sophomores)
1st – Adlai Stevenson High School Team D
2nd – University of Chicago Laboratory School
3rd – Adlai Stevenson High School Team E
TEAMS is administered by the Technology Student Association (TSA), a national, non-profit organization devoted to the needs of students engaged in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Membership in TSA includes over 190,000 middle and high school students in 2,000 schools spanning 49 states.
TEAMS is one of several STEM programs offered by TSA. Visit to learn more about TSA and its other STEM competitions and programs.
IIT’s Formula Hybrid™ race car team displays their electric powered car
IIT ASCE student members talk with TEAMS participants
BJ Engelhardt (standing on right), Associate Director of Student Access and Diversity, greets TEAMS participants