On 28 February 2026, the annual “3D Printing in STEM” Hackathon took place at the Innovation Hub of Zhytomyr Polytechnic State University. The event brought together teams of students from Zhytomyr lyceums who transformed their ideas into real physical prototypes.
The hackathon was organised by the Innovation Hub of Zhytomyr Polytechnic State University, with the Center for Conversion and Professional Adaptation (CCPA) acting as a co-organising partner. The event was held with the support of BGV Group Management, founded by Hennadii Butkevych.
Throughout the day, teams learned how to work with 3D printing technologies and immediately applied this knowledge in practice. Participants designed and printed their own models, developed prototype concepts and presented their solutions to the jury during the final pitching session.
The teams worked on a wide range of applied solutions. Their projects included educational 3D modules for understanding engineering structures, portable charging stations with 3D-printed cases, and smart Arduino-based devices designed to support everyday tasks, including monitoring medication schedules.
The hackathon was held in partnership with the university startup MechLab 3D, which demonstrates how engineering developments from the university environment can grow into real products and production processes. The MechLab 3D team also supported the winners with prizes, including filament produced in-house.
Oksana Oliinyk, Acting Rector of Zhytomyr Polytechnic State University and Professor, emphasised the importance of practical engineering education for young people:
“Zhytomyr Polytechnic systematically invests in engineering education for young people — through practice, modern technologies and an environment where students can create their own solutions. Events such as the ‘3D Printing in STEM’ Hackathon show that engineering is not only a trend, but also today’s reality that shapes the professions and development of Ukraine tomorrow.”
The event once again showed the value of hands-on formats where students can move from an idea to a tangible prototype within a short period of time. For many participants, the hackathon became an entry point into engineering thinking, additive manufacturing and product development.
CCPA congratulates all participants and winners of the hackathon and thanks them for their strong ideas, teamwork and willingness to test new solutions in practice. The next step is to continue developing these concepts beyond the first prototype and turn them into more advanced technical projects.
For CCPA, participation in the hackathon reflects its broader commitment to supporting youth innovation, STEM education and practical formats that connect learning with real technological creation.
