Your Extreme 2026: From power outages to learning programming through play

Every year, KONGSBERG challenges students to think differently, collaborate across disciplines and find creative solutions to societal challenges. Through the student competition Your Extreme, participants have just 48 hours to turn a problem into a concrete proposal for a solution.

The competition was organised in collaboration with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and the University of South-Eastern Norway (USN).

Students could choose between two challenges. The first focused on emergency preparedness and how existing civilian technology could be used in new ways when a serious crisis strikes. The second challenged students to develop solutions that spark children's curiosity about technology and inspire them to become creators themselves.

The result was a wide range of ideas, from alternative payment solutions and navigation without GPS to new ways of teaching children programming.

Speaking at the award ceremony in Kongsberg, CEO Eirik Lie emphasised the importance of challenging established ways of thinking.

He also highlighted the need to develop the technological expertise Norway will depend on in the years ahead.

"We must continue to develop new knowledge, challenge established ways of doing things and invest in the people who will create tomorrow's solutions," said Lie.

Learning programming through play wins in Kongsberg

At the award ceremony in Kongsberg, the main prize went to Just Works for their concept, Skift.

The team developed the idea of a wristband that turns programming into a hands-on, playful activity. Using components embedded in the wristband's strap, children can put together code, experiment and learn through trial and error, without having to sit in front of a screen.

The concept is designed to grow with the pupils. Older children can, for example, create new games and challenges for younger pupils.

The jury particularly highlighted how the solution makes programming tangible and accessible while encouraging collaboration and learning across different age groups.

Second place went to Løserne, who explored how existing fibre networks and coastal, radio and mountain stations could provide ships with accurate time and positioning information if GPS systems become unavailable. Through simulation, the team demonstrated how the solution could contribute to safer navigation.

M1-USN took third place with a concept for using existing drones to fight forest fires. The drones could be used to dampen firebreaks, extinguish smaller fires and transport equipment to areas that are difficult to access.

Two special awards were also presented in Kongsberg.

The Innovation Award went to We Have No Idea for Beredskapshylla, a concept that uses electronic shelf labels in grocery stores to communicate important information during emergencies. The displays could show messages from authorities, stock availability and information about upcoming deliveries.

The Sustainability Award went to GER for Nødvaluta 2.0. The team proposed using existing reverse vending machines to issue paper vouchers if digital payment systems become unavailable. These vouchers could be used to purchase essential goods such as food, medicine and fuel.

Second place went to Unge og lovende damer with GLITCH, a concept for a television series about a group of 13-year-old friends who use technology to solve problems. Through humour, excitement and relatable characters, the team hopes to spark children's interest in technology and highlight the opportunities available in technology-related careers.

Dream Bernoulli took third place with Bakken som lytter (The Listening Ground). The concept uses existing fibre-optic cables as sensors in the event of quick clay landslides. By detecting movements in the ground, the solution could provide emergency responders with a better overview of affected areas and the risk of further landslides.

Fresh perspectives on tomorrow's challenges

For KONGSBERG, Your Extreme is about more than coming up with good ideas in a short space of time. The competition gives students an opportunity to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges, while allowing the company to engage with young people who bring fresh perspectives on technology and societal development.

This year's entries demonstrate how existing technology can find new applications, as well as how curiosity about technology can be encouraged from an early age.

From a programmable wristband to new emergency preparedness solutions, the students have shown that tackling major challenges does not necessarily mean starting from scratch. Sometimes, it is about recognising new possibilities in what we already have.

KONGSBERG congratulates all the winners and thanks every participant for their efforts in this year's Your Extreme competition.