Budding Berwyn Scientist Wants To 'Make Airplanes Great Again'

BERWYN, PA – A Berwyn kid's idea to improve airplanes has earned him a spot as a finalist in a young scientist challenge that recognizes students who exude curiosity in the scientific process.

Leo Wylonis, a Tredyffrin/Easttown Middle School student, was named a finalist in the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge.

Students were invited to submit short videos that describe a new invention or idea that could solve or impact an everyday problem.

Of hundreds who entered, judges selected 10 finalists for their exceptional science acumen, spirit of innovation and ingenuity, and effective communication skills demonstrated in their entry videos.

The finalists ̶ seven boys and three girls, ranging in ages from 12 to 14 ̶ include those from public and private schools all across the nation.

Wylonis' idea goes over how to improve the efficiency of planes by shifting rom fixed-wing structures to flexible wings.

Not only did Wylonis come up with the idea, he used tools to create his own version of the wing concept and put it to test on a model plane.

The challenge is presented by Discovery Education and 3M.

"The Young Scientist Challenge has not only supported students in achieving their dreams, but it has also provided the 3M team with the opportunity to contribute to the future of science in a special way," said Paul Keel, senior vice president of Business Development and Marketing-Sales at 3M. "As we look toward the next chapter of 3M’s involvement in youth development, we are tremendously proud to be a part of shaping our next educators, entrepreneurs and inventors."

All 10 finalists receive $1,000 and a trip to 3M Headquarters in St. Paul, Minn., to participate in the final competition at the 3M Innovation Center during October 2018. A panel of judges will evaluate finalists on a series of challenges, including a presentation of their completed innovation. Judges will score each challenge independently.

The winner will receive $25,000, a trip to watch the taping of a Discovery Network show and the title of "America’s Top Young Scientist."

Finalists will have the opportunity to work one-on-one with 3M scientists during a summer mentorship program to develop their ideas into a working solution that has potential to positively impact their family, community or the global population.

Students meet virtually with their mentors, who provide guidance from concept to prototype. 3M is a company rooted in scientific exploration, and the belief that every problem has a solution. These practices offer students complete experience of the scientific process and how to apply it to solve a real-world problem. Throughout the program, each student will have access to resources and support provided by 3M and Discovery Education.

"Year after year, we have been honored to witness firsthand the ingenuity and charisma of the nation’s youngest generation," said Lori McFarling, senior vice president and chief marketing officer at Discovery Education. "3M shares our unwavering support for children who, no matter their age, seize the opportunity to solve real-world problems and who encourage their peers to explore the power of science."

Congratulations and good luck, Leo!

Image via YouTube screenshot