2025 Rotary Technology Challenge Success

The 2025 Rotary Technology Challenge proved once again that West Fife's young people are ready to reach for the stars - quite literally. On Monday 30th June, St Columba's High School played host to an impressive gathering of 13 teams, all eager to tackle the Space Capsule Launcher Task that would test their engineering mettle.

The challenge was as ambitious as it sounds: teams were tasked with designing and building a launcher capable of firing a space capsule (represented by a golf air ball) containing meteorological instruments into the stratosphere. What made this particularly engaging was the comprehensive approach required - teams couldn't simply focus on building alone, but had to demonstrate their thinking through detailed portfolios showing drawings, sketches, design principles, and analysis of their chosen solutions.

The competition drew talent from across Dunfermline, with four teams each from St Columba's RC High School and Woodmill High School, two teams from both Dunfermline High School and Queen Anne High School, and notably, one team from local employer ExxonMobil, whose technicians rolled up their sleeves to join the challenge.

The technical requirements were demanding: successful launchers needed to demonstrate reliable release mechanisms, achieve vertical launch through a 300mm hoop positioned 1m high, reach a minimum height of 3m, deploy parachutes effectively, and achieve accurate landings. It was a comprehensive test of engineering principles, creativity, and practical problem-solving.

In a fitting conclusion to the day's events, the winning team came from the host school, St Columba's RC High School. Congratulations go to team members Euan, Timmy, Martin, and Tom, whose design and execution proved superior in meeting all the challenge criteria.

The event showcased the collaborative spirit that makes the Rotary Technology Challenge special, with organisation handled jointly by three local Rotary Clubs – West Fife, Dunfermline, and Carnegie. Sponsorship from local employers Babcock and ExxonMobil ensured the event could provide the resources and expertise needed to make the challenge both educational and engaging.

Above: Charlie Clark, President of the Carnegie Dunfermline Rotary Club presents the winners trophy to St Columbas RC High School.

Industry Engagement Makes the Difference

Elliott from ExxonMobil, one of the event sponsors, provided valuable insights into why industry involvement in such challenges is crucial. "As a company we want to be very in touch with the local community," he explained. "We're really looking just to inspire the next generation of engineers and people who are interested in pursuing a career in STEM."

The industry perspective brought real-world relevance to the academic exercise. Elliott noted the creativity on display: "Some unorthodox ideas, but a lot of creativity being shown by the kids that are here. It's nice to see, and for us to be involved."

Beyond the immediate excitement of the competition, the event served as a window into career possibilities. Elliott, a chemical engineering graduate from Strathclyde University, outlined the various routes into engineering careers. "There's many different pathways. You can come in as an engineer, so that's the university route, or you can come in as a technician, so that's more of the apprenticeship route," he noted, adding that apprentices can progress to become engineers through company-sponsored further education.

The Bigger Picture

The Rotary Technology Challenge succeeds because it transforms abstract scientific principles into tangible, engaging challenges. As Elliott observed, it demonstrates "how you can apply what you've learned in school into a more practical challenge." The high level of engagement from all participants proved that science and engineering, far from being boring subjects, can capture young imaginations when presented as real-world problem-solving opportunities.

Along with our Rotary neighbours, the West Fife Rotary Club is proud to support this initiative, which not only celebrates young talent but also strengthens the connections between education and industry that will shape our area's future. The 2025 challenge has set a high bar, and we look forward to seeing how next year's participants will rise to meet it.

The Rotary Technology Challenge continues to demonstrate the power of community partnership in inspiring the next generation of engineers and innovators. Our thanks go to all participating schools, sponsors Babcock and ExxonMobil, and our fellow Rotary Clubs for making this event possible.

Winners Record

2019 - Woodmill High School
2019 - Dunfermline High School
2020 - COVID
2021 - COVID
2022 - COVID
2023 - Woodmill High School
2024 - Queen Anne High School
2025- St Columbas RC High School