The Conrad Challenge is a multi-phase innovation and entrepreneurial competition for students ages 13-18. Named after Apollo 12 astronaut Charles "Pete" Conrad, the competition encourages students to develop innovative products and services that address real-world challenges.
The competition focuses on four key categories: Aerospace & Aviation, Cyber-Technology & Security, Energy & Environment, and Health & Nutrition. Teams work to create sustainable solutions with genuine market potential.
Visit Conrad ChallengeOur Conrad Challenge entry for environmental monitoring
Every year, millions of pounds of trash end up along our highways and coastlines.
Not because people don't care, but because cleanup teams don't know where to start.
We are TAM AIR, and we built Sylva to change that.
Visit Sylva WebsiteMarin County and the greater California region face increasing threats from wildfires and environmental degradation. Traditional monitoring methods are expensive, limited in coverage, and often too slow to prevent disasters.
TAM AIR's affordable, 3D-printed drone system provides cost-effective environmental monitoring that can be deployed by local communities, fire departments, and conservation organizations.
Our journey through the Conrad Challenge
Successfully registered for the Conrad Challenge 2025-2026 season.
CompletedSubmitted our comprehensive project proposal and business plan.
CompletedAim to advance to the semifinal round with our innovative solution.
UpcomingGoal: Present at the Conrad Innovation Summit finals.
GoalThe Conrad Challenge isn't just a competition - it's an opportunity to turn our vision into reality. Winning or placing highly would provide resources, mentorship, and visibility to scale our environmental monitoring solution.
Beyond the competition, participation validates our approach and connects us with other young innovators working on similar challenges. The skills we develop - entrepreneurship, engineering, teamwork - will serve us regardless of outcome.
Our Goal: Demonstrate that students can create practical, affordable solutions to serious environmental challenges.
Help us represent Marin County at the Conrad Challenge! Your support helps cover prototype development, materials, and travel expenses.