New York Mills Students Compete at AFRL Challenge

While most students spent their recent spring break relaxing, New York Mills UFSD students Abbey Calhoun and Mark Klein Jr. chose a more rigorous path. From April 6–10, they participated in the 17th Annual Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Challenge Competition at the Innovare Advancement Center in Rome. Hosted by the Griffiss Institute, this high-intensity event challenged participants to solve complex, real-world artificial intelligence problems provided by the AFRL Information Directorate.

Accompanied by chemistry teacher Ms. Audrey Foote, the students operated in a professional research environment that mirrored the daily work of defense scientists. Rather than following a standard curriculum, they tackled open-ended "challenge problems" using advanced tools in cybersecurity, software engineering and robotics. This collaboration allowed Abbey and Mark to work side-by-side with active AFRL engineers, gaining a rare behind-the-curtain look at the technology driving national security while moving beyond theoretical classroom concepts into the rapid prototyping required in the professional world.

The week culminated in a high-pressure final presentation on April 10, where the team stood before a panel of expert judges to demonstrate their logic and defend their technical solutions. By sacrificing their school holiday, these students demonstrated the grit and intellectual curiosity that distinguishes them as the Mohawk Valley’s next generation of STEM leaders.

Beyond the immediate academic reward, this experience opens doors to future AFRL summer internships, networking opportunities with top-tier defense contractors and potential New York 529 account contributions. Their commitment highlights the strength of the District’s STEM program and proves that these students are more than ready to tackle the global challenges of tomorrow.

Congratulations to Abbey and Mark on your incredible hard work, dedication and impressive achievements during this intensive competition!

Photos courtesy of Griffiss Institute