all competitions

The Building Trades Career Fair, along with the Solano County Office of Education (SCOE) Build a Bridge competition, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 14 at the Carpenter's Training Facility, 800 Chadbourne Road in Fairfield.

The public is invited to watch Solano County high school students compete in the 11th Annual Build a Bridge competition where bridges made out of popsicle sticks are tested to failure. In past competitions, bridges have withstood over 1,400 pounds.

More than 85 high school students have entered the competition representing: Vacaville High School, Will C. Wood High School, Vanden High School, Vallejo High School, and Benicia High School. These students are enrolled in classes such as principles of engineering/robotics, construction trades, and drafting which are supported by SCOE's Career Technical Education (CTE) program.

Representatives from the Union Trades will be present to provide displays, hands-on demonstrations, and discuss four year degree options. Solano Community College is also supporting the event.

In addition to bridge design, students are judged on technical drawing, a written paper detailing their efforts, and an oral presentation. Students learn that engineering can be fun and the winning teams demonstrate excellence in both academic and social skills; design and drafting, mathematics, English, and team-building.

The event is free and will include a complimentary barbecue lunch, drawings, and giveaways.

website: http://www.thereporter.com/news/ci_18015417