Concrete Canoe

The Cal Poly Pomona Concrete Canoe team is a student-led engineering project where we design, construct, and race a fully functional canoe made out of concrete. This project combines innovative material science, structural engineering, and real-world teamwork, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge to a competitive and hands-on experience.

Our process begins with designing the canoe using advanced engineering software. We carefully select the right concrete mix to ensure the canoe is both strong and buoyant. The construction phase involves molding, reinforcing, and casting the canoe. Once completed, we test and refine our work to prepare for regional and national competitions, where teams are judged on their canoe’s performance in races, as well as design reports and technical presentations.

In addition to developing engineering skills, the project fosters collaboration, leadership, and project management, as we work together to overcome challenges from design to implementation. The Concrete Canoe competition provides a unique opportunity for students to experience real-world engineering and to connect with industry professionals, all while representing Cal Poly Pomona on a national stage.

How Can You Help? As a non-profit, student-run organization, our entire budget depends on the generosity of donors like you. Every contribution helps cover crucial expenses such as construction materials, high-quality concrete mix, tools, safety equipment, transportation costs, and more. Your support is vital as we push toward our goal of competing at nationals and continuing our tradition of excellence. We hope you’ll consider donating to help us bring our canoe project to life and propel our team to success at PSWS 2026!