Mid City Times

The Fort Worth Public Library is inviting teens in grades 6-12 to participate in a 3D bridge-building contest. The challenge, which runs through September, aims to test participants' creativity and engineering skills using 3D printers. Final projects must be submitted by 8 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 30.

Christina Granados, the Library’s teen program coordinator, explained the purpose of the contest: “This lighthearted contest mimics those constraints and encourages you to think creatively.” The winner will receive a new 3D printer, while the runner-up will be awarded a 3D pen.

This event marks the Library’s first citywide CAD (computer-aided design) Contest. It aims to inspire youth to consider engineering challenges and develop skills that may benefit their future careers. Donations from the Fort Worth Public Library Foundation funded the purchase of ABS filament required for the challenge.

Andrea L. Ash, Foundation President & CEO, emphasized the broader impact: “It’s not just about funding the purchase of 3D-printer filament,” she said. “It’s about investing in the future of technology and design so it can inspire and empower the next generation of innovators.”

Submissions will be judged on strength, rigidity, and aesthetics but will not be returned as they will undergo weight-testing. However, digital designs will remain intact.

Granados encouraged participants: “Use your imagination to design a strong bridge. Take inspiration from architecture. Fearlessly experiment.” She added that contestants could repeatedly refine their prototypes before submission.

Library staff are available to assist with design software and printers. Free classes on 3D design and printing are also offered at select library locations.