Santa Clara County FlexFactor Finals – Spring 2023
On June 1st, 2023, NextFlex hosted the Spring 2023 Santa Clara County FlexFactor Finals. Five teams across three school districts competed for top honors. The three districts represented at this event were San Jose Unified School District, Milpitas Unified School District, and Metropolitan Education District. The students present at FlexFactor Finals not only completed the program but finished as the top teams in their respective classrooms. FlexFactor is a project-based learning program during which students are introduced to flexible hybrid electronics (FHE) then they work in teams to research a problem area, conceptualize an advanced hardware device, create a business model, and give a final pitch presentation to a panel of judges. Students were tasked with presenting their Flexible Hybrid Electronic based product concept and business model to a panel of representatives. The panel included NextFlex’s Executive Director, Dr. Malcolm Thompson; Promex’s Vice President of Engineering, Dr. Dave Fromm; and Evergreen Valley College’s Adjunct Professor, Sherri Taylor.
The top placing product concepts were, in order of placement, Team WeCloud from Leland High School, with their product WeFlare, a climate engineering tool that launches a biodegradable flare into clouds that increases the chance of precipitation. Through this method, it can reduce drought impacts and support water management efforts. Next, Team RokaVR conceptualized a product that gives a simulation practice setting for medical institutions/colleges by allowing surgeons and students to practice or attempt a surgery before they have a patient on the table. Lastly, Team GlucoPatch conceptualized a product that is a blood free device to help the diabetic community and monitor their glucose levels.
By exposing students to real-world industries, cutting-edge technologies, and entrepreneurial opportunities, FlexFactor equips them with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in an ever-changing world. Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and collaborative projects, students gain a deep understanding of various industries, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. NextFlex’s commitment to hosting the Santa Clara County FlexFactor Finals is not only a testament to its belief in the program’s transformative power but also a tangible way to bring together different communities and celebrate the next generation of innovators.
