Power Up Schools Challenge sparks STEM excitement
More than 25 students from five South Australian schools stepped into the world of energy innovation at SA Power Networks' first-ever Power Up Schools Challenge on Wednesday, 22 October.
A day of STEM and problem-solving
Held at our Network Innovation Centre, the event brought together Year 10 and 11 students to tackle a simulated blackout. Working in teams, they completed hands-on challenges in data science, cyber security, and sustainability. The challenges were all designed to show how technology and teamwork within SA Power Networks, combine to keep the lights on.
The students rotated through three activities:
- Data science: Using Spot the robot dog and image analysis tools to identify objects and train computer vision models.
- Cyber security: A 'capture the hacker' challenge to track down clues using online tools.
- Sustainability: Investigating energy use in a fictional town to uncover why consumption had spiked.
Picture: Participants work on one of the challenges.
Inspiring future innovators
Throughout the day, students heard from SA Power Networks engineers and graduates about the exciting career paths in energy and technology. A panel discussion gave real-world insights into how STEM skills can lead to roles shaping the future of the grid.
Innovation Development Manager Michelle Howie said hosting the event was a highlight:
“We loved welcoming students to the Innovation Centre, which is home to world-first breakthroughs in renewable technology. We hope they left inspired to be part of the global energy transition.”
And the winners are…
Picture: The Watt’s Up team from Findon Technical College with Peter Chapman (left) and Christine Rootsey (right) of SA Power Netoworks.
After hours of problem-solving, the Watt’s Up team from Findon Technical College claimed the overall title. Another award, for Best Teamwork, was won by Gawler and District College’s It’s Free Real Estate! team.
Looking ahead
The Power Up Schools Challenge was a proof of concept and hailed as a big success by all of those involved. Teachers and students praised the event for its creativity and real-world relevance. SA Power Networks plans to build on this momentum and is looking at making the challenge even bigger next year.