Vernier Software & Technology is accepting applications for its 2017 Engineering Contest. The contest recognizes science and STEM teachers for their creative uses of Vernier sensors to teach students engineering concepts and practices. Two winning teachers—one middle school teacher and one high school teacher—will each receive prizes valued at $5,500.

Applications for the contest are due by February 15, 2017, and winners will be announced in March on the Vernier website and Facebook page. To enter, educators must complete an online application, as well as produce a video that showcases the engineering project in action, describes the Vernier sensors being used, and highlights the engineering concepts being addressed. The sensors may be used in conjunction with Logger Pro software, NI LabVIEW software, LEGO NXT, VEX, or any other system incorporating Vernier sensors.

Applications will be judged by a panel of Vernier experts based on innovation, engineering objectives, and the ease by which other teachers can replicate the project. Applicants will specifically need to explain how the project addresses the engineering practices called for in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

Each winner will receive $1,000 in cash, $3,000 in Vernier technology, and $1,500 toward expenses to attend the 2017 National Science Teachers’ Association (NSTA) STEM conference or the 2017 American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) conference.

“We are constantly impressed by the innovative ways teachers are using our technology to engage students in hands-on learning,” said John Wheeler, CEO of Vernier Software & Technology. “Our annual Engineering Contest helps us recognize and share some of these best practices, while supporting teachers by providing prizes and valuable professional development opportunities.”

The winning projects from the 2016 Vernier Engineering Contest focused on developing specialized water filters and designing bridges made out of a single material without adhesives.

For complete information on the 2017 Vernier Engineering Contest and to submit an application, visit www.vernier.com/grants/engineering/.