This multidisciplinary project has developed around a senior design class in the University of Alabama at Huntsville's Mechanical Engineering Department, funded in part by the Alabama Space Grant Consortium (ASGC). University professors, senior mechanical and aerospace engineering (MAE) students, technical communication students, engineers from various disciplines, high school science teachers, local hobbyists, and high school students are working together to form integrated product teams (IPTs). Individual IPTs compete against each other to develop a project that will meet stated technical requirements and cost restraints. Technical communication students form an editing team that supports the project through editorial reviews, website development, and the resume booklet.

The Boeing Company is participating by providing a Statement of Work and mentors to guide students in the process of working as an IPT. Boeing's Statement of Work requests that the students design and evaluate a contest that will interest high school students in fields such as propulsion, aeronautics, and control systems. MAE students have named the contest “The Ultimate Egg Drop.” The Ultimate Egg Drop simulates a crew escape scenario using a model rocket-powered glider and an escape module. Prior to launching the model glider, MAE students will attach the crew escape module (an egg) to the model glider. When the model glider reaches a specified altitude, the crew escape module will be released. To achieve success, the escape module must arrive safely at a specified location.

In addition to designing and testing gliders and escape mechanisms, the students are developing marketing plans to convey information to high schools about the availability and educational benefits of the contest. Ideally, the project will result in a nationwide contest that will encourage younger students to study science and technology, to continue these studies through college, and to consider careers in aerospace. Furthermore, the contest will serve as a pilot program for other universities and communities.