NFPA News

NFPA Opens Registration for 10th Anniversary Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge

Written by Mary Pluta | Aug 21, '25

The National Fluid Power Association (NFPA) is excited to announce that registration is now open for the 10th anniversary year of the Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge, a milestone year for this dynamic and growing program. We anticipate record participation from universities across the country. 

This year’s final competitions will be hosted by: 

  • Sun Hydraulics – Sarasota, Florida | April 8–10, 2026 
  • IFP Motion Solutions Inc. – Cedar Rapids, Iowa | April 15–17, 2026 
  • IMI plc – Rockford, Illinois | April 22–24, 2026 

Since the program’s inception, more than 1,000 students have taken part, supported by 57 NFPA member companies serving as mentors, judges, and event hosts. The strong collaboration between universities and NFPA member companies is the foundation of the program’s continued success. Industry mentors and judges provide critical feedback and insight, helping students bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. 

One student team summed up the impact of mentorship with this note: 
“Thank you for sharing your time, knowledge, and expertise with us throughout this year. Your ever-ready input and feedback was our most valuable asset throughout the design and build process.” 

Students who take part in the Vehicle Challenge gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience with fluid power components, circuits, and systems. They learn how these elements are utilized to manage force and motion effectively.  

Opportunities for industry engagement begin this fall: 

  • Networking Mixer – November 7, 2025 
  • Midway Reviews – December 2025 through January 2026 

For industry registration details, please reach out to Mary Pluta at mpluta@nfpa.com 

*Participating in the Vehicle Challenge Program is an opportunity reserved for donors to the Pascal Society. Find out if your company is a donor here. Interested NFPA members who are not donors are welcome to participate once to see how the program works, and the advantages associated with being involved. 

Programs like the Fluid Power Vehicle Challengeare made possible in part by the generous support of industry volunteers as well as NFPA Education and Technology Foundation and Pascal Society donors.Support these efforts by making a donation.