This year, the IGCE was once again delighted to be part of the Children's University Vienna. On two afternoons during the second week of the summer holidays, we welcomed enthusiastic young participants aged 7 to 12 to explore one of the key questions in structural engineering:

How can we build structures that are as stable as possible while using as little material as possible? A true key question when it comes to resource efficient construction.

Following a short introduction to the principles of structural efficiency and resource-conscious design, the children put their knowledge into practice. Together, they built impressive Leonardo bridges and designed creative skeletal structures using wooden skewers and modelling clay.

The challenge did not end with construction. Each structure was carefully measured and weighed, allowing participants to calculate a resource efficiency index and compare which design achieved the best balance between structural performance and material consumption.

We were particularly pleased by the great mix of girls and boys, the creativity of their designs, and the enthusiasm with which they tackled each challenge. It was inspiring to see so much curiosity for engineering, sustainability, and creative problem-solving at such a young age.

Participating in the Children's University is always one of the highlights of our year. We sincerely thank Children's University Vienna for the excellent organization and all colleagues and student assistants whose support made these two exciting afternoons possible.