The 10th Annual InventOR Finals highlighted an incredible range of student innovation from across Oregon. While our Grand Prize and podium finishers showcased outstanding ventures, several additional teams were recognized for their creativity, impact, and entrepreneurial spirit through special awards. This post celebrates four award-winning teams who earned recognition—and prize funding—for their standout ideas at this year’s competition. 4th Place — Dec Vac | $3,000 Oregon Institute of...

Innovation often begins by improving everyday challenges, and Luma Dental Technology is doing just that. At the 10th Annual InventOR Finals, the team from Oregon Institute of Technology earned 3rd Place for developing a practical solution that enhances efficiency and visibility during dental procedures. The team—Diego Garcia, Erick Amador-Gonzalez, Kaylee May, and Anesti Audeh—created a smart heated oral mirror that warms to body temperature, permanently eliminating lens fogging during dental...

The 10th Annual InventOR Finals showcased innovative ideas from student entrepreneurs across Oregon, recognizing ventures that are tackling real-world challenges with creative, impactful solutions. Representing Oregon State University – Cascades, Cascade Safety Systems earned 2nd Place for developing technology designed to improve safety for skiers and snowboarders. The team—Jared Messersmith, Makani Hiltner, and Hunter Erhard—developed the Tree Well Guardian, a boot-mounted sensor that...