Students put their skills to the test at VU Jasper’s 6th Annual CTIM Challenge

Creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving took center stage as 128 students competed in Vincennes University Jasper’s 6th Annual Center for Technology, Innovation and Manufacturing (CTIM) Challenge on Friday, November 6.

Students from nine area high schools and VU Jasper’s Automation and Robotics Academy and Construction Trades programs tackled hands-on challenges developed by eight local industry partners: MasterBrand, Jasper Engines & Transmissions, Kimball Solutions, Kimball International, Jasper Lumber, Farbest, OFS, and Wabash Valley.

From designing miniature vehicles to constructing structures and engineering constraints, students experienced firsthand the creativity and critical thinking required in today’s workforce.

“It’s really uplifting to see how the community comes together to create such a stimulating event for the students. The CTIM staff always enjoy seeing what new challenges the industry partners come up with and how much creativity the students demonstrate as they work to solve the challenges,” said Ashley Schaefer, VU Jasper’s CTIM Director.

This year’s top teams were:

• First Place Overall: Perry Central – Team 3 (Levi Etienne, Beau Taylor, Chase Cummings, Olivia Goffinet)
• Second Place Overall: Forest Park – Team 1 (Izak Meyer, Jace Wright, Eli Andry, Nathan Verkamp)
• Third Place: Heritage Hills – Team 2 (Lila Hildenbrand, Carson Hoffman, Carter Nord, Brett Meunier)

The annual competition connects students with local employers while showcasing the skills and career opportunities available throughout Southern Indiana.