STCC named finalist in National Community College Innovation Challenge

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College has been selected as one of only 12 finalist teams nationwide in the 2026 Community College Innovation Challenge, a prestigious competition hosted by the American Association of Community Colleges in partnership with the National Science Foundation.

Now in its 10th year, the Community College Innovation Challenge encourages entrepreneurial thinking among community college students by challenging them to develop science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)-based solutions to real-world problems.

STCC’s finalist project, HydroShield, is a replaceable washing machine filter designed to capture microplastic fibers before they enter waterways. Using a specialized coated textile layer and a simple sensor that signals when the filter needs replacement, the low-cost system aims to reduce microplastic pollution, protect water quality and lessen long-term environmental health risks.

STCC is the only community college in Massachusetts to be selected as a finalist.

“Our Phi Theta Kappa students, Shahmeer Ali, Vincent Githiri and Sophia Landrau, worked very hard to prepare for this competition, attending webinars on microplastics, interviewing scientists and collaborating creatively to develop HydroShield. I am proud of their innovation and STCC’s recognition as a national finalist,” said Dr. Reena Randhir, an STCC professor and PTK advisor.

Dr. Christopher Thuot, Vice President of Academic Affairs, added, “Being named a finalist for this prestigious award reflects STCC's innovative spirit and the commitment of our faculty and students to applied research that aims to develop sustainable solutions to global issues. We are eager to see our students compete on the national stage and wish them luck in Washington, D.C.”

Being named a finalist for this prestigious award reflects STCC's innovative spirit and the commitment of our faculty and students to applied research that aims to develop sustainable solutions to global issues. Dr. Christopher Thuot, Vice President, Academic Affairs

As finalists, the STCC team will participate in the Innovation Boot Camp in June 2026, where students will work with entrepreneurs and industry experts on business planning, stakeholder engagement, strategic communication and marketplace dynamics. The program culminates in a Student Innovation Poster Session on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., where teams will present their projects to STEM leaders and congressional stakeholders before delivering final pitch presentations for first-, second- and third-place awards.

According to AACC, this year’s finalist projects address issues such as food insecurity, search and rescue, road safety, infrastructure, energy efficiency, safe drinking water, senior protection, accessible learning for the visually impaired, power grid security and expanded access to quantum technology. Many submissions also incorporated emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and advanced manufacturing.

“Congratulations to the 2026 CCIC finalists,” said DeRionne Pollard, president and CEO of AACC. “These visionary students are advancing innovations that protect the natural environment, improve infrastructure and preserve health and safety. In solving real-world problems that impact our communities, these teams of students are advancing their talent, skills and creativity.”

The Community College Innovation Challenge showcases the critical role community colleges play in developing the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs and STEM leaders.

For updates about the 2026 Innovation Boot Camp and winners, visit www.aaccinnovationchallenge.com.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu

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