Kindergarten through 12th-grade students throughout Ohio were recently recognized in the 30th Ohio Invention Convention Honda State Final Awards Ceremony & Celebration. Midview Local Schools is proud to share that rising 6th-grade student, Matthew Limpach, was named an Industry Innovator in the grades K-5 Energy category, as presented by American Electrical Power (AEP).
With support from Midview East Intermediate STEM teacher Kim Kauffman, Matthew addressed the lack of "small, clean, and easy ways to produce electricity" in the modern world with his invention, “Linear Generator with Alternative Energy Harvesting System.” He designed the prototype to easily mount to various places for residential or commercial use - on a house, tree, boat, flagpole, tent, etc. Globally, the generator could be used in remote parts of the world where wind is present, including deserts and oceans.
“I was impressed with Matthew’s initiative as he developed a question and then found a solution to his problem. I knew when he shared his prototype with me and explained its purpose that he had a useful invention that could benefit society,” said Kauffman. “I am confident that Matthew will continue to challenge himself to find and develop more solutions to problems that he discovers in the world around him in the future. That is what STEM is all about, and Matthew exemplifies that.”
The annual Ohio Invention Convention allows students to display their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills by designing prototypes that address real-world problems. Students activate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and social-emotional learning skills through project-based learning, invent a prototype/product solution, and then apply their entrepreneurial mindset to gain feedback, explore market potential, and pitch their product.
Student inventions are submitted virtually for preliminary judging before participating in the live final showcase. Matthew was joined by his Midview peers who also qualified – Ruby Faust (grade 4) with her Slim Saver and Korbyn Campbell (grade 4) with his Magni-Glitter Invention.
“It was an absolute delight to support our fellow Midview students and reconnect with other families we've met over the years at Invention Convention. The sense of community and camaraderie was heartwarming,” said Julie Limpach, Matthew’s mother. “When they called Matthew's name for the award, I couldn't help but hear the cheers, ‘Way to go, Matthew,’ and applause from our Midview family and others. I am thankful for the guidance Matthew has received during his educational journey and couldn’t be more proud of him.”
This is Matthew's second time participating in the Ohio Invention Convention. Previously, he took home first prize during his 3rd-grade year for his Wet Pet Safety Shield. This year, Matthew completed the process as an independent study project having earned Alumni Participant status.
Matthew received $430 for his CollegeAdvantage 529 Savings Account and was named an alternate for the 2024 Invention Convention Nationals.
“On behalf of Midview Local Schools, I would like to congratulate all of our students who participated in this year’s Ohio Invention Convention,” said Superintendent Dr. Bruce Willingham. “Your interest and investment in helping to make the world a better place through the power of invention is truly inspiring.”
About The Invention League and Invention Convention
The Invention Convention program, provided by the Invention League, is a free, STEAM-aligned educational program featured in Midview West Elementary. The curriculum aligns with Ohio's Learning Standards, National Science Standards, and Social and Emotional Standards. The Invention League is a 501(c)(3) that, in addition to hosting the Invention Convention events, offers year-long educational support, Inventor Experiences, and the Invention and Entrepreneurship State Final Competition to students, schools, and districts at no cost to the families or districts.