Design Tech Student Spotlight: FlowBoarding and Prototypes

International Baccalaureate diploma candidate and student at North Broward Preparatory School since the 3rd grade. Luke's education has been shaped by his passion for science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics (S.T.E.A.M.) subjects and his love for FlowBoarding. His story is not just about academic excellence but also about resilience, innovation, and pursuing one's dreams against all odds. 

It all started with a fascination for understanding the intricate workings of how everything operates and works, which led him to pursue S.T.E.A.M. subjects fervently. Through courses in math and engineering, he found a way to merge his academic pursuits with his interests, laying the foundation for his future endeavors. "By taking math and engineering courses, I am putting together my passions. This school has allowed me to have a unique perspective,” shares Luke. 

Design Technology class

Luke discovered and cultivated his passion in his IB Design Technology class, taught by Dr. Hammond.Through designing a prototype for a FlowBoard, he delved deep into understanding the mechanics behind his favorite sport. “My Design Technology course has pushed me to learn about my specific passions and how they can be transferred into a real-life occupation. Dr. Hammond’s design tech class makes learning fun; I designed a FlowBoard prototype. I have always been interested in understanding and learning how the board works and interacts with the water. I am taking my knowledge of mathematics, measurements of the surface area, engineering, and materials knowledge to my design technology course.”

An important part of the class is learning how to streamline the production and prototyping process. Through user feedback, he was able to improve the production of the boards. “The first FlowBoard I designed was completely flat. When my brother and I tested them out, it was not effective. I had to figure out how to make a curve on the board. With my brothers' help, I learned the importance of prototyping and user testing. My goal was to create a board that I could use as an advanced flow rider. Currently on the market, boards are designed for beginners, amateurs, and professionals. There's no board currently that’s designed for advanced riders that complements their specific styles.” Through this class, he found a platform to channel his love for FlowBoarding into something tangible.  

FlowBoarding

Luke has been a passionate FlowBoarder ever since he was twelve years old. It started as a hobby, then he started competing at the professional level. His FlowBoarding journey has not been without challenges. Right after he made it to the professional category, in 2020 he suffered a major knee injury that threatened to derail his career, but Luke's determination and resilience saw him through. “After a lot of physical therapy, I was able to gain my strength back and began competing as a professional. I was able to land the same tricks, but I did have to change the way I ride.” Despite the setback, he made it back to the top, becoming the world's #2-ranked FlowBoarder. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. 

Career Aspirations

Through his experiences in design technology and his journey as a FlowBoarder, Luke found a new career trajectory. His dream is to start a board manufacturing company that caters to the diverse needs and styles of riders. With plans to study Business with Innovation at Northeastern University, Luke is poised to turn his dreams into reality. 

Luke's success would not have been possible without the guidance of teachers like Dr. Hammond. The project-based approach to learning empowered him to explore his passion and turn it into something meaningful. Through personalized guidance and encouragement, Dr. Hammond helped Luke exceed expectations and set a benchmark for his peers. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of education, passion, and resilience. From a young student with a love for S.T.E.A.M. subjects to a world-class FlowBoarder with entrepreneurial aspirations, his story is one of inspiration and determination. As he embarks on the next chapter of his journey, Luke serves as a shining example of what it means to pursue one's passions relentlessly.