Tredyffrin-Easttown Middle School student Leo Wylonis is one of 10 finalists in a national “young scientist” challenge, writes Ginger Dunbar for the Daily Local News.

Wylonis, an eighth-grader from Berwyn, will compete in The Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge for the title of America’s Top Young Scientist.

The challenge recognizes sixth-grade to eighth-grade students who use scientific thinking to come up with innovations that help improve lives in their local communities or globally.

“I entered because I want the ability to learn from the experience, as well as other students and 3M engineers, about different topics,” said Wylonis.

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For the challenge, Wylonis designed a device that mimics the twisting motion of a bird in flight to use in airplane wings. This increases fuel efficiency while reducing carbon emissions. The young scientist will partner with a 3M mentor as part of the summer mentorship program to turn his concept into a reality.

All finalists will receive $1,000 and a trip to 3M’s headquarters in Minnesota, where they will participate in the final round in October. Their entries will then be evaluated by a panel of judges on a series of challenges, including a presentation of their innovations.

Read more about The Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge in the Daily Local News here.

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