Students from St. Clement Catholic School have demonstrated their innovative and technical skills by securing silver in the Skills Ontario Grade 8 Hydraulic Crane Regional Competition.
The esteemed event, which draws skilled participants from across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), challenges students to design and construct a functional hydraulic crane. Using paper-based materials, syringes, fluids, and plastic tubing, competitors must create a mechanism capable of lifting a 200-gram weight, meeting the competition’s rigorous performance criteria.
Guided by their teacher, Mr. Daley, Grade 8 students Daniel C., Gabriel S., and Eric M. (pictured from left to right) devoted countless hours to perfecting their structurally sound designs. Their commitment and ingenuity propelled them to the podium, earning a well-deserved second-place finish.
With the provincial finals approaching in April 2025, the three students are eager to refine their crane model and build upon their success. "The dedication and problem-solving these students have shown are remarkable," said Mr. Daley. "Their ability to turn ideas into a working design through collaboration and persistence is exactly what this competition is about. I have no doubt they’ll continue to impress at the next level."
This outstanding accomplishment not only highlights their dedication but also reinforces the significance of STEM-based education. When provided with the right resources and challenges, young innovators continue to surpass expectations and achieve remarkable milestones.