Florida Tech announced the winners of its annual Northrop Grumman Engineering & Science Student Design Showcase on May 2. The event featured 232 student projects, with winners selected in categories like President’s Cup, Northrop Grumman Best in Show, and Honors College Best in Show. The showcase took place at Florida Tech’s Melbourne campus, drawing judges and attendees from across Brevard County.
The projects included 120 from the College of Engineering and Science, 103 from the College of Aeronautics, and nine from the College of Psychology and Liberal Arts. One standout entry was a lunar rover designed to withstand extreme temperatures, while another explored whether adverse childhood experiences reduce trust in the U.S. court system. Students presented their work in person, with some projects involving hands-on demonstrations.
Judges evaluated entries based on innovation, feasibility, and alignment with industry needs. The President’s Cup winner came from the College of Engineering and Science, focusing on sustainable energy solutions for remote locations. The Northrop Grumman Best in Show went to a team from the College of Aeronautics for a drone-based system to monitor coastal erosion. The Honors College Best in Show was awarded to a psychology project analyzing social media’s role in mental health among teenagers.
The event is part of Florida Tech’s effort to connect academic research with real-world applications. Winners receive scholarships and mentorship opportunities through partnerships with local industries. The next showcase is scheduled for spring 2027, with applications opening in October.