Experienced structural engineers will help young minds get over gaps in their science knowledge, and their strongest tools are popsicle sticks.
Each year, Pine Centre Mall hosts the city's Ultimate Bridge Building Contest and Geo Rocks Event put on by the local chapter of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (APEGBC). This year's edition happens on Feb. 22.
"Last year we broke all records for number of entries - approximately 100 bridges that were tested to destruction," said APEGBC spokesman Gary Dean, a professional engineer with Pinnacle Renewable Energy Inc.
"This year we are looking forward to beating the record yet again. This is our main event every year to publicize the importance of engineering in the north, but the Central Interior branch also works hard during the rest of the year to encourage all our budding engineers and geoscientists to think about and explore their options for exciting careers in these professions."
There are three age categories with first, second and third place prize money in each. Anyone interested must go to the mall on Saturday and register at the APEGBC's booth. They will be provided with a bridge building kit and the chance to discuss ideas for strong designs using only popsicle sticks and white glue.
During the test event, each bridge is clamped into a hydraulic vice. The young builder gets to work the pressure lever until the bridge snaps. The ones that sustain the heaviest measurements win the prizes, and the audience wins every time they bust. They are crunchy moments that could lay a bridge for young science enthusiasts to lifelong careers.
