Future City uses the engineering design process as a framework to guide students through the creation of their cities.
Within this framework, students apply specific project management methods to keep their projects on track. This structure gives students a real-world learning experience they can apply to future challenges in school, work, and life. The program emphasizes Catholic values, encouraging students to design cities that prioritize social justice, sustainability, and the common good, while fostering compassion and empathy in their solutions.
In addition to the engineering concepts, the program also promotes collaboration. Students learn to work as a team, developing important interpersonal and teamwork skills, which are essential in both academic and professional settings. Throughout the process, participants are encouraged to support and learn from one another, contributing to their personal growth and the success of the overall project.
As part of the program, students have opportunities to interact with engineers who visit and speak with them about their projects. These engineers provide valuable insights into the practical application of the design process and the state-of-the-art technologies being used to enhance learning and innovation. Their experience helps bridge the gap between the theoretical concepts students are learning and the real-world demands of engineering careers.
Future City themes are different every year. Participants will complete five key deliverables:
- A 1-500 word city essay
- A scaled city model built from recycled materials
- A detailed project plan
- A 7-minute presentation
- A 10-minute Q&A session with a panel of judges at Regional Competitions (online in January)
Regional winners will represent their region at the Finals in February.
After completing Future City, students are not only prepared to be citizens of today’s complex and technical world but are also poised to become the drivers of tomorrow. Future City is an engaging way to build students’ 21st-century skills and equips them to face the challenges ahead with creativity, resilience, and an ethical perspective.
By participating in Future City, students:
- Apply math and science concepts to real-world issues
- Develop writing, public speaking, problem-solving, and time management skills
- Research and propose solutions to engineering challenges
- Discover different types of engineering and explore career options
- Learn how their communities work and become better citizens
- Develop strong time management and project management skills
- Embrace Catholic values of stewardship, social justice, and service in their designs