2026 AI-Generated Content (AIGC) Distinguished Award Results Announced

We are delighted to announce the Distinguished Award recipients of the 2026 National AAEOY AI-Generated Content (AIGC) Video Challenge!

Under this year’s theme, “Engineering Changes the World,” participants from across the country used AI-powered storytelling to demonstrate how engineering transforms our world, improves lives, and shapes the future.

Following careful review and voting by our distinguished judging panel, CIE leaders and volunteers, and the public, the following projects have been selected for special recognition:

🏆 Distinguished Award Recipients

• Engineering Mindset Award: Melody Jing — One More Chance
  Recognizing an exceptional demonstration of engineering thinking, problem-solving, and real-world impact.
• Film Innovation Award: Hanson Du, Ryan Guo, and Alex Du — Heatwave in Paris: Counteracting Global Warming
  Honoring outstanding creativity and innovation in AI-assisted filmmaking and storytelling.
• Most Popular Award: Preston Tsai and Zachary Fang — Beyond the Scratch: The Future of Wound Care
  Recognizing the video that most successfully connected with, engaged, and inspired its audience.

Congratulations to all the Distinguished Award recipients! Your creativity, technical skills, and vision have powerfully demonstrated how engineering, AI, and storytelling can work together to change the world.

The recipients will be recognized at the AAEOY Awards Celebration on September 19, 2026.

We sincerely thank every participant, family member, educator, judge, volunteer, sponsor, CIE chapter, supporting organization, and community member who watched, voted, shared, and supported this inaugural national competition.

Congratulations again to all our winners and participants!

26 National AAEOY AIGC Video Challenge Committee
CIE/USA