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How to Start a R.E.C. Team

Minnesota Renewable Energy Challenge


The MN Renewable Energy Challenge (R.E.C.) starts with an 8-week student design and build season in which teams construct small wind turbines with the goal of creating something both efficient and elegant. The season culminates with a Challenge Day where teams bring their wind turbine to be scored on energy output in the 48” x 48” wind tunnel, along with design and an industry knowledge component. At this event, teams may be paired to form alliances, video interview other teams or complete a same-day solar challenge. Awards for all categories will be given.

Check out this short video!

 

What is a R.E.C. team?

R.E.C. teams come in all shapes and sizes.  They form with school groups, neighborhood friends, scout troops, community ed groups, homeschoolers, etc. Teams have 3 - 8 participants from grades 4-12th. Teams can be a mix of grades & ages. In Minnesota we have separate judging groups.

Rookie Teams (1st year) or Returning Teams

 

REGISTER Your Team!

Team Registration is open at High Tech Kids, see link below. After you register your team you can place your Challenge Kit orders on the Kid Wind Website. These will be shipped directly to you.

Register your R.E.C. Team

 

When is the Season?

The build season starts in January and culminates with the MN Challenge Day in April. 

Training and Events for more information.  

 

How much does it cost?

The total cost for a NEW  team is $132-$152

  • $100 MN Team Registration (Includes coaches training, participation in our challenge event, and day-of building materials)
  • $32 Wind Turbine Kit from Kid Wind (returning teams can use previous years turbine)
  • $20 Solar Boat Kit (optional) from Kid Wind


How to form a R.E.C. Team

Hold an informational meeting for your school or group. Explain the program, time commitment, cost per team member and the need for volunteer coaches. One adult coach per team is required. No experience is necessary to coach. See the document below for more information

How to Start a R.E.C. Team - one pager

 

Who we are and where to find help

High Tech Kids: The Minnesota nonprofit that coordinates team registration, resources, volunteer recruitment and administers the challenge. Established since 1999 we have served more than 22,000 students.   

Cheryl Moeller:  Executive Director, cheryl@hightechkids.org, 612.781.2203
Vicki Coaty:  Programs Manager, vicki@hightechkids.org, 612.781.2203       

Kid Wind Project: St. Paul based company provides building and training materials for coaches as well as teacher curriculum, products and teacher training.                       

          Michael Arquin:  Founder, Director, michael@kidwind.org, 877-917-0079