Did We Mention We Won?

A few months have passed since CABPES’ team of aspiring scientists and engineers earned the top prize in the Future City Competition: Colorado/Wyoming Round—and we’re still giddy from the results.

According to the American Planning Association, knowledge of urban spatial structure or physical design and the way in which cities work and the ability to analyze demographic information to discern trends in population, employment, and health are just some of the skills needed to be a successful planner.

Dubbed the “ultimate STEM competition” by organizer DiscoverE, a nonprofit dedicated to providing global resources, programs, and connections between K-12 students and engineers, Future City challenges students to use Engineering Design Process (EDP) and project management skills to design and build a model city that counters one or more sustainability issues.

This year’s “Above the Current” theme required students to develop innovative urban planning solutions that address climate change and environmental concerns.

CABPES’ team, the Aqua Aces, excelled at this task. Our students not only earned First Place in the qualifying tournament but also moved forward to represent Colorado in the International Competition in Washington, D.C.

CABPES scholars have participated in the Future City competition since 2019. Each entry presented learning opportunities that enhanced STEM skills, resilience, and team spirit.

“We’ve advanced from third place, to second place, to first,” says CABPES Board Member Charlotte Brigham, M.D. “What’s more, our team has been the only after-school program to participate each year, so we’re excited and tremendously proud of this achievement.”

CABPES’ Executive Director, Dewey Brigham, Ph.D., is equally thrilled.

“This victory is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication of our scholars,” he says. “The Aqua Aces have demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills and teamwork, and we couldn’t be prouder of their achievement. We are thrilled to see them represent Colorado and Wyoming on the national stage.”

Our team was there to capture the moment the Aqua Aces heard the exciting news about their placement in the 2025 Future City competition!

Although the Aqua Aces didn’t medal in Washington, D.C., CABPES students are bound to return to the national stage soon and hopefully bring the top honor home to Colorado.