This year, 30 students participated in the annual cardboard boat race—hosted by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Club and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Club.

Four teams were formed and were tasked with constructing a boat out of cardboard, duct tape, and garbage bags. These boats were taken to the Walla Walla University Winter Educational Complex pool, where they were judged on how long they stayed afloat and how fast they completed the race.

“I think watching people try to paddle their creations and then tip over is incredibly enjoyable,” said Sam Evans, ASME Club president. It was Evans and Natalie Hunter, ASCE Club president, who originally came up with the idea for this event, and it has been a big hit with participants ever since.

This competition requires students to practice creative problem solving while providing a fun, collaborative environment. “This is one of my favorite events of the year. I personally hope that this event continues even after I graduate,” said Evans.

Both the WWU ASCE and ASME Clubs provide numerous opportunities for students to collaborate with fellow engineers and develop critical engineering and construction skills through hands-on activities and competitions.

The ASCE Club works to engage members through outdoor events like camping trips and through community engagement like service opportunities. Some of the ASME Club’s most popular events include their rocket launch, Egg Drop competition, and Junk Wars.

To learn more about the School of Engineering and its clubs, visit wallawalla.edu/engineering.

Posted April 8, 2026.