The 2025 Cloverbud Engineering Adventure encouraged teams to experience the science of flight as they used their engineering and problem-solving skills to explore different types of aircraft that interested them. They then created their aircraft out of LEGO®-type bricks. In addition to showcasing the different types of aircraft, they learned about the pioneers of flight and how aircraft are able to fly.
The Cloverbud Engineering Adventure culminated in a one-day showcase event in which teams presented their solution to an engineering problem. The requirements included constructing a model on a 15” X 15” baseplate with interlocking parts such as Legos ® or Mega Bloks®, having at least one moving part or simple machine and creating a poster to highlight the overall engineering challenge.
Each team of two or more Cloverbuds prepared a poster/tri-fold highlighting their overall experience. The teams shared their models, posters, knowledge, and excitement with volunteer judges at the showcase events held throughout Ohio. This year there were nine showcase locations. Teams could choose the location closest to them.
The Cloverbud Engineering Adventure has seen tremendous growth since its inception in 2021. There were 108 participants from 13 counties in 2021. In 2024 there were 450 participants from 32 counties. Sixty-seven teams totaling 367 participants registered for showcases in 2025.
Look for this event to return in 2026! It continues to motivate our youngest 4-H youth to develop an interest in STEM activities. For more information 
about this year’s challenge, visit the 4-H Cloverbud Connections webpage.
No endorsement from The Ohio State University for products referenced in this curriculum is intended or implied.
Photos courtesy of Bruce Zimmer.