Vernon Student Scores Big At Connecticut Invention Convention

VERNON, CT — Center Road School student Ethan Powell was recently recognized as one of the highest point earners at the annual Connecticut Invention Convention.

His invention was "The Propeller Shield 2.0." It is designed to protect and shield marine life from getting hit and injured by boat propellers.

Ethan cited statistics that show more manatees were killed in Florida in 2019 than any other year.

The shield is designed to cover a propeller with a strong, water-resistant steel mesh, so if an animal were to be hit the propeller, the animal would just bounce off it, unharmed. The steel mesh keeps the water flowing freely, without interrupting the function and movement of the boat.