Ever dream of being an engineer or architect? Enjoy building and designing? Looking for a fun, educational project this winter? Then put your ideas and skills to work for the third annual Bridge Busting Competition.

This fun, educational challenge is facilitated by the University of Illinois Extension 4-H Youth Development Program of DuPage, Kane and Kendall Counties, and it sponsored by Rural King and the Fox Valley Family YMCA. The 2016 Bridge Busting Competition begins at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 9, at the YMCA in Plano, with awards tentatively scheduled for 1 p.m.

“The annual competition provides an excellent learning and team-building opportunity for youth, teens, classes, clubs, families, and other groups,” said Jo Ann Britton, 4-H Youth Development Program Coordinator. “Registered teams will build bridges according to competition rules with provided supplies, and entries will be judged on aesthetics and tested for structural strength at the contest in March.”

Participants may enter in one of three categories: youth teams for ages 10 and older, family teams including adults, and school teams. Teams must have a minimum of two members. Registered teams will receive an official contest packet, which includes rules and regulations, general event information and project supplies, Britton said.

“This competition is just one example of the experiential learning process that 4-H promotes through its community clubs, special interest clubs and school enrichment activities,” Britton said. “With partners like Rural King and the Fox Valley Family YMCA, we are able to bring this challenge to the community and highlight the importance of science, technology, engineering and math in a fun and educational way.”

To learn more or register your team, visit web.extension.illinois.edu/dkk/bridge. Space is limited. Registration now closes Nov. 22 or when the program meets capacity. The cost is $35 per team. If you need reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please notify at registration or contact the Extension Office at (630) 553-5823.

4-H Youth Development programs provide hands-on learning activities for youth in Kendall County, across Illinois and throughout the country. There are many different ways to experience 4-H in your county, including community clubs, special interest (SPIN) clubs and afterschool activities and camps.

University of Illinois Extension provides educational programs and research-based information to help Illinois residents improve their quality of life, develop skills and solve problems.