The Columbia Gorge STEM Hub, a department within the Columbia Gorge Education Service District (CGESD), is thrilled to announce the success of its inaugural Rube-a-Thon event. The Rube-a-Thon was held on Friday, October 6th at Columbia Gorge Community College (CGCC) in The Dalles. This regional event brought together 21 teams of 7th graders (120 students) from Oregon and Washington, representing Hood River, Wasco, Klickitat, and Skamania counties, to showcase their ingenuity in tackling the annual Rube Goldberg Institute Challenge of "Put Toothpaste on a Toothbrush."
The Rube-a-Thon, inspired by the renowned cartoonist Rube Goldberg, provided the opportunity for middle school students in The Gorge to unleash their creativity, hone their problem-solving skills, and practice teamwork. The participating teams were tasked with constructing elaborate contraptions, employing chain reactions, and using ordinary objects to accomplish the ultimate goal of putting toothpaste on a toothbrush.
Throughout the day, the atmosphere was filled with laughter, excitement, and a sense of friendly competition. The Rube-a-Thon not only allowed students to put their STEM knowledge into practice but also encouraged them to think critically, persevere through challenges, and embrace the power of teamwork.
Six different teams were recognized in the following categories: Most Complex Contraption (Scary Kitties, Hood River New School), Most Creative Use of Materials (Bean Burritos, Wind River & The Tinkerbells, Glenwood School), Most Humorous Contraption (The Eagles, Wy’East Middle School), Most Innovative Chain Reaction (Awesome Avocadoes, The Dalles Middle School), and Team Spirit Award (Fruity Patooties, Wind River Middle School).
"We are extremely proud of all the participating teams for their exceptional creativity and teamwork," said Kate Wurster, STEM Hub Coordinator and the event’s organizer. "The Rube-a-Thon provided a unique opportunity for students to apply their STEM knowledge in a fun and engaging manner. We believe that events like these are crucial in inspiring the next generation of innovators and problem solvers."
“What an absolutely incredible event. Our hearts are full after such a thoughtful and engaging experience, and can’t thank you enough for organizing what is the first of many more Rube-A-Thons to come!” said Stephanie Kunkler, Hood River New School Teacher.
“Thanks again for a fantastic field trip! The STEM Hub did a wonderful job organizing and executing. Looking forward to doing it again next year!” said Andrea Kaplowe, Wy’East Middle School Teacher.
The Columbia Gorge STEM Hub would like to extend its appreciation to all the educators, industry and community volunteers, including Catherine Loke and Charlotte Chapman (Insitu), Jack Perrin (Gorge Makerspace), Christy Christopher (Columbia Gorge ESD), Rosa Grabos (Keynote Speaker, Amazon), Greg Paul (community member), and CGCC staff, Dylan McManus and Kylie Brunton, who made this event possible. Their commitment to supporting STEM-related initiatives for local students has helped create an unforgettable experience for all involved in this year’s Rube-a-Thon!
For more information about the Columbia Gorge STEM Hub and its upcoming events, please visit www.gorgestem.org.
About Columbia Gorge STEM Hub:
The Columbia Gorge STEM Hub is one of 13 regional STEM Hubs across Oregon and is a department within the Columbia Gorge Education Service District (CGESD). By collaborating with schools, educators, businesses, and community organizations, the STEM Hub strives to inspire and prepare students for future careers in STEM fields.
About Columbia Gorge Community College:
Columbia Gorge Community College is a comprehensive community college serving the educational and workforce development needs of the Columbia Gorge region. With a commitment to student success and community engagement, the college offers a wide range of programs and services to support diverse learners in achieving their goals.
