Model Bridge Contest

Have you ever wondered how bridges can carry people, cars, and trucks over long spans without collapsing? Do you want to find out what engineers think of when planning and designing these structures? Come and explore the engineering process as you build a scale bridge out of an unconventional material and compete to carry the most weight. 

The Model Bridge Competition is hosted by the Boston Society of Civil Engineers (BSCES) Public Awareness & Outreach Committee. Each year, a group of civil engineers come together to choose a material, dimensions, and weight limit for the competition. Technical specifications for the bridge design are then written and sent to competing students when the competition officially begins.

We welcome all students in grades 12 and below to participate in the competition and explore the process behind designing a bridge while complying with the unique constraints provided each year. Students are challenged to plan, design, and construct a structure that meets specifications and then load test the structures on competition day. Bridges are awarded based on aesthetics and appearance, as well as load carrying efficiency. If you think you’re ready for the challenge register using the link above and dive into the engineering design process.