TTU Regional KidWind Challenge

The TTU Regional KidWind Challenge is a one-day wind energy competition for students in grades 4 through 12. Teams design, build, and test their own wind turbines at Region 17 ESC in Lubbock. The top two teams in each grade division earn a spot at KidWind Worlds in May.

Who Can Join?

Any student in grades 4 through 12 can compete. Teams can have 1 to 10 members, but 3 to 5 is the ideal size. There are two divisions:

• Junior Division: grades 4 through 8
• Senior Division: grades 9 through 12

Every team needs one adult coach, like a teacher or a parent. Your coach does not need to be a wind energy expert. They just help with planning, gathering materials, and keeping the team on track.

What Happens at the Competition?

The event is held at Region 17 ESC in Lubbock. Here is what to expect on competition day:

• Teams run their wind turbines through a real wind tunnel
• Students present their designs to a panel of judges
• Teams take on renewable energy instant challenges
• The top two teams from each division advance to KidWind Worlds

How Do I Sign Up?

1. Form your team (1 to 10 students; 3 to 5 is ideal)
2. Find an adult coach, such as a teacher or parent
3. Register your team online
4. Review the official KidWind rules

How Do We Prepare?

You do not need a big budget or special equipment. Here are some ways to get ready:

• Use free learning materials from KidWind to study wind and solar energy
• Build your turbine with everyday materials from home or the classroom
• Test your design often -- trial and error is how teams improve
• Need hard-to-find parts? The KidWind shop can help
• Request a TTU classroom visit to get hands-on support from our program

Coaches can also sign up for a teacher workshop at Region 17 ESC or attend a virtual KidWind workshop to learn more before the event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does our team need special equipment to compete?

No. Most teams build turbines from everyday materials found at home or school. If you need something specific, the KidWind shop sells hard-to-find parts.

What if our coach does not know anything about wind energy?

That is fine. Coaches help with logistics and safety, not engineering. KidWind and the TTU Renewable Energy Program both offer free resources to help your team learn as you go.

Can alumni and industry professionals attend without competing?

Yes. We welcome alumni, industry partners, and community members as mentors, judges, or observers. Contact us to find out how to get involved.

Where is the competition held?

The competition takes place at Region 17 ESC in Lubbock, Texas.

What grade levels compete in each division?

The Junior Division is for students in grades 4 through 8. The Senior Division is for students in grades 9 through 12. The top two teams from each division advance to KidWind Worlds in May.

Get Involved

Register Your Team

Quick Links

• KidWind Official Rules
• Free KidWind Learning Materials
• KidWind Parts Shop
• Virtual Teacher Workshop
• Request a TTU Classroom Visit

Questions?

Contact the TTU Renewable Energy Program at renewableenergy@ttu.edu.