#United States #AI Solutions #Farmington #STEM Challenge #Otis

Otis Announces Global Winners in 2026 Made to Move Communities™ Challenge

Otis Worldwide Corporation recently declared the co-champions for its 2026 Made to Move Communities™ Challenge, recognizing outstanding student teams from HKFYG Lee Shau Kee College in Hong Kong SAR and Geniko Lyceum Filothei in Athens, Greece. These young innovators developed creative technological solutions aimed at aiding community officials, emergency responders, and residents during natural disaster scenarios.

Challenge Overview

The 2026 iteration of the Made to Move Communities Challenge saw students harnessing their STEM and AI skills to address mobility obstacles in the face of increasing natural disasters worldwide. With a notable surge in the frequency and severity of such events in recent decades, the need for practical, tech-driven solutions has become more pressing than ever. Over 200 high school students from 18 various institutions across 14 countries participated in this global challenge, showcasing the dedication and ingenuity of youth in tackling real-world issues.

Winning Concepts

The team from Geniko Lyceum Filothei proposed a groundbreaking concept involving an AI-enabled container specifically designed to monitor rainfall patterns and consequent water levels. This innovative system can preemptively alert local emergency management teams, facilitating quicker responses and potentially saving lives during flood-risk situations. Meanwhile, the students from HKFYG Lee Shau Kee College introduced a combined AI and augmented reality system tailored for first responders navigating smoke-filled environments. The system aims to enhance visibility and connectivity, ensuring the safety of those involved in rescue operations in critical conditions.

Leadership Acknowledgment

Randi Tanguay, Otis' Chief Communications Officer, praised the remarkable work of both student teams. In her statement, she emphasized the intersection of creativity, technical prowess, and a strong commitment to community welfare demonstrated through their projects. Tanguay expressed hope that these burgeoning innovators will continue to seek challenges and utilize technology in ways that help their communities thrive.

Educational Impact

In recognition of their achievements, both winning teams received grants of $35,000 to support their respective schools. Lin Chun Pong, principal of HKFYG Lee Shau Kee College, remarked on the importance of transforming academic knowledge into applicable solutions that extend beyond classroom confines. He articulated immense pride in the practical experience gained through the challenge, which empowers students to engage with pressing societal issues. Similarly, Petros Matzakos, principal of Geniko Lyceum Filothei, underscored how such initiatives foster essential skills of critical thinking and collaboration among students.

The Significance of Made to Move Communities

Otis' Made to Move Communities program forms a cornerstone of their social impact efforts, aimed at promoting STEM education and cultivating future leaders. Over the years, Otis has engaged more than 1,000 employees as mentors to over 1,250 students, fostering a collaborative environment where emerging talents can realize their potential in addressing global challenges. Since its inception, the initiative has disbursed 145 grants totaling nearly $1.5 million to enhance ongoing STEM education efforts at participating schools.

Focusing on Natural Disasters

This year's theme centers around natural disasters, aligning with the observed rise in their occurrences. The frequency of natural disasters has increased significantly, and this has led to a pressing need for innovative mobility solutions. The Make to Move Communities program helps bridge the gap between technological advancement and community preparedness, ensuring that future generations are equipped to handle the challenges presented by our changing world.

About Otis

Otis Worldwide Corporation is renowned as a global leader in the elevator and escalator sector, committed to ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable movement in urban environments. Operating across more than 200 countries and territories, Otis moves approximately 2.5 billion people daily while maintaining a massive service portfolio comprising around 2.5 million customer units. The company, headquartered in Connecticut, USA, prides itself on its innovative spirit and dedication to enhancing mobility solutions while empowering communities around the globe.

For more information about the Made to Move Communities program, visit www.otis.com/mtmc.