The Aims Community College Industrial Technology program will host its fourth annual Aims B.E.S.T. (Battle of Energy, Science and Technology) competition this June.
The program offers high school students ages 14-18 a unique, team-based learning experience. The 2025 program takes place from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. June 9-12, 2025.
Participants will gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology, allowing them to develop critical thinking skills while engaging in exciting challenges. Students are divided into teams and compete in missions that use programming, electronics, robot design, games and more. Some activities include bridge building, a scavenger hunt, a “Shark Tank”-like business pitching competition, a paper airplane flying contest and more.
Dave Sordi, Aims’ chair and instructor of industrial technologies and energy studies, thinks of the competition as similar to the Triwizard Tournament in the novel, “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.” He explains two essential differences between the challenge described in the story and the B.E.S.T. program.
“Instead of selecting an individual to participate, students work as a team,” Sordi says. “Those teams who work best together will be the most successful.”
He also acknowledges, “No magic is involved, sorry.”
The team that completes the most challenges successfully in the shortest time will receive trophies and recognition for their accomplishments. An award is also given to the most valuable teammate, encouraging teamwork and camaraderie. Aims keeps building on the program’s success.
“Everyone has a great time exploring our technology at Aims. I’m passionate about young people interested in STEM and the potential career opportunities in industrial technology,” Sordi says, noting that he can’t wait to see what this year’s participants accomplish.
Space is limited, and registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no cost for students to attend. For more information and to register, visit aims.co/best.
