Update May 5, 2:30 p.m.: This story was temporarily taken down due to incorrect information. The story has been updated to reflect that the team is affiliated with Aeros Foundation, and is independent from U-High

Aeros Racing, Aeros Foundation’s STEM Racing team, placed third at the STEM Racing National Finals April 12-15 in Charlotte, North Carolina, qualifying for the global competition for the third year in the row. 

Sophomore Sam Koh, a structural engineer on the team, said the team expected better results, citing a feeling of uncertainty and unpreparedness going into the competition.

“We came in hoping for a number one in the country but on Tuesday, the day of the main competition, we weren’t feeling good, and our car really didn’t perform to what we were expecting,” Sam said.

The World Finals will take place in Singapore Oct. 3-8. Sam is looking forward to improving their car and clinching a top spot. 

In previous years, Aeros Racing placed 23rd out of 85 teams during the 2025 world finals and 13th overall at the 2024 world finals.

“I think with a lot of time this summer, and especially if we revise our car, we have a chance at a top spot,” Sam said. “Maybe not number one — I think top three or top five is definitely possible.”

Overall, the trip was a success, with the team bonding and getting closer. The current competition team is entirely new, because STEM Racing has a two-year cap on returning members. 

Sam said, “We spent a lot of time together during those four days, having to manage and organize each other while keeping a good morale.”