Young Innovator Wins $10,000 for Groundbreaking Train Derailment Research

In a remarkable achievement, 14-year-old Gary Allen Montelongo recently earned $10,000 for his exceptional science project investigating train derailments, a pressing issue in the United States. This investigation took place as part of the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge, where he showcased his findings after months of dedicated research and experimentation.

The Project Inspiration

Last year, over 1,300 freight trains derailed in the U.S., highlighting serious safety concerns within the railway system. Among these incidents, the derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, which resulted in a catastrophic chemical spill, deeply affected Montelongo. While interning on railway safety during this time, he was inspired to examine the mechanics behind train derailments more closely. This incident spurred discussions around the suspension systems of trains, prompting Montelongo to delve into the variables that could contribute to such accidents.

How He Did It

Montelongo's project involved building model railroad tracks and coding an accelerometer to measure vibrations. By constructing three different sets of tracks using various types of springs, including new, midlife, and worn-out ones, he aimed to simulate the real-world conditions affecting train stability. Through careful observation and numerous tests, he discovered that aging and defective suspension springs could significantly increase the risk of derailment, especially under uneven weight distribution.

Recognition and Awards

After winning his regional science fair, Montelongo competed against 29 other talented middle schoolers in the prestigious national challenge. At the awards ceremony, he was celebrated as one of five major winners, receiving the Broadcom Coding with Commitment Award. Maya Ajmera, CEO of the Society for Science, praised Montelongo's interdisciplinary approach, emphasizing how his melding of mechanical engineering with coding exemplified innovative thinking.

Future Aspirations

Now a high school freshman, Montelongo aims to become a mechanical engineer, dreaming of one day working with NASA or SpaceX. His passion for designing and coding is evident as he continues to explore engineering principles through various projects. For Montelongo, the road ahead is filled with potential and curiosity, as he envisions contributing to advancements in safety and technology in the future.

Montelongo's story serves as a reminder of the impact young innovators can have on society by addressing real-world challenges with creativity and engineering skills.

This article was inspired by reporting from Business Insider.