Scottsdale teen named finalist for astronaut tool invention

PHOENIX — Austin Suder of Scottsdale has been named a finalist in the “Two for the Crew” Challenge, a competition for K-12 students to invent tools for astronauts.

Participants in the challenge were asked to combine two items into one multi-functional object in order to prioritize reduced volume and mass. They were then asked to print a 3D model of the item for evaluation.

Suder’s item was chosen as one of four finalists for his age group and he has been invited to present his invention to Niki Werkheiser, a Manufacturing Project Manager at NASA.

“These students are helping to shape the future of space exploration and I’m excited for them to get direct feedback from NASA experts like Niki,” CEO and founder of Future Engineers Deanne Bell said.

The challenge was issued by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Foundation along with NASA. Future Engineers developed and hosted the challenge and announced Suder as one of the finalists.

If Suder goes on to win the competition, his design will be printed on the space station and he will receive a trip to Washington D.C. to learn about space exploration.

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