Speedfest, an annual aerospace design competition and exposition organized by the Oklahoma State University School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering concluded Saturday and involved teams from Meridian Technology Center and other Oklahoma schools in designing, building, and flying high-speed radio-controlled aircraft in a competitive environment.
Various preparations went into the event as students collaborated to create their aircraft. Brian James, Meridian Technology Center Stillwater STEM Academy Instructor, said the program provides a capstone experience for students while promoting STEM education and excitement around aerospace.
“As a STEM instructor who has led student teams in Speedfest since 2016, the event represents far more than just a competition—it’s a launchpad. It’s where they see their ideas take flight—literally,” James said. “To me, Speedfest is a bridge—connecting classroom learning to real-world application.”
One of the activities students participated in was the aircraft design and construction process. James said the competition allowed students to express their engineering skills while also offering valuable hands-on experience that brings classroom concepts to life.
“Students who participate in Speedfest develop a wide range of skills that go beyond the classroom. They gain hands-on experience in building, wiring, and flying model aircraft, while learning important concepts in aerodynamics and flight systems,” James said. “Along the way, they develop confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of ownership in their work—qualities that serve them well in any future path they choose.”
Speedfest, a STEM-focused competition promoting aerospace education and engineering, originated in 2008 at Oklahoma State University. Dr. Andy Arena founded the event, which has grown to include both college and high school divisions. This year’s competition featured innovative aircraft designs from schools across Oklahoma.
The competition, which began at OSU’s College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology through the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department, now involves various activities across schools. From design presentations to flight competitions, Speedfest aims to engage students in discussions about aerospace principles and engineering concepts.
“Just jump in. You don’t need to be an expert in planes or engineering to start. What matters most is your willingness to learn, your work ethic, and your ability to be part of a team,” James said about joining Speedfest. “Every school approaches it differently, but the core message remains the same: to create excitement about STEM education.”
As interest grows, so does student involvement. Daniel Naveda, a Speedfest participant from Stillwater High School and Meridian Technology Center, shares his experience.
“Teamwork is supremely important as a skill to learn,” Naveda said. “It’s essential for students to recognize that Speedfest is more than just building airplanes; it’s a chance to develop important skills.”
In addition to aircraft development, students learn various aspects of engineering. Nathaniel Hannabass, another Speedfest team member, explained what drew him to the program.
“I was interested in joining Speedfest because building a plane with my friends and a great teacher seemed like a really fun experience,” Hannabass said. “This past competition was my first one, so I didn’t really know what I was getting into, nor do I feel as though it is a good experience to base my opinion off of, but I enjoyed getting to see our plane fly finally.”
Speedfest serves as an important opportunity for students and future engineers alike, encouraging a united approach to problem-solving and innovation.
“I encourage students to just jump in,” James said. “It’s a great opportunity to make a positive impact on your future.”
