North Kingstown Chamber Hosting High School Wind Turbine Competition

NORTH KINGSTOWN, RI — The North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce’s WindWinRI, offshore wind career training program will host its third annual regional Rhode Island High School Wind Turbine Competition.

The competition is in partnership with KidWind and will be held on April 29 at the Community College of Rhode Island Kingith campus in Warwick.

This year’s competition will include two divisions: the KidWind Division and the Advanced Division. This will expand on the competition piloted in Rhode Island last year.

All teams will use Whitebox simulation software to design, 3D print and test turbine blades. Those entering the KidWind Division will use a KidWind generator, while those in the Advanced Division can use a home-built generator or a purchased generator.

"We are very excited that this innovative event designed by WindWinRI and incorporated into their offshore wind high school certification program is back," Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training Director Matthew Weldon said. "The WindWinRI Rhode Island Regional High School Wind Turbine Competition is a hands-on, dynamic opportunity for our state’s youth to be engaged in renewable energy and build an awareness of offshore wind-related careers. This industry represents a vital component of our state’s continued growth, and training opportunities like this one where students learn about the engineering design process for wind turbines is critically important to our economic growth and helping those students find sustainable, successful careers."

The competition is open to all high school students. They can compete in either division.

Any new school entering the competition would most likely register to compete in the KidWind Division unless they already have students and a designated teacher who has experience in the engineering design process.

The advanced level of this competition is at the collegiate level. Participating schools can receive test kits and technical consultation if requested.

For high schools and students interested in participating in the competition, visit the chamber's website or email info@northkingstown.com.