Gold Medals, GPUs, and Power Grids: Math Modeling in Action

Ever wonder if karate should be an Olympic sport, why ChatGPT’s GPUs were melting, or what’s really behind summer power outages?

Our Math Modeling Team is on it.

This year, 16 Mayfield students became real-world problem solvers, competing in two international math modeling competitions: HiMCM and M3 Challenge. From analyzing energy systems to selecting the next Olympic sport, these students didn’t just use math—they used teamwork, creativity, and a mix of skills to take on challenges pulled straight from today’s headlines.

“When I was initially faced with the challenge, it seemed near-impossible. But once we started sharing ideas, we cracked it together,” shared Allison H. ’26.

At Mayfield, math modeling is more than crunching numbers. It’s about bringing together an array voices—math minds, coders, data analysts, and writers—to build models, communicate ideas, and solve problems that don’t have a clear answer.

“Math modeling has helped me appreciate the power of collaboration and math to take on difficult challenges,” Allison said. “The different expertises of everyone allowed us to create multiple mathematical models to solve a seemingly impossible challenge.”

Our students are learning how to think critically, communicate clearly, and work as a team to create solutions that are both practical and forward-thinking. Whether it’s exploring the carbon footprint of AI or building predictive models for extreme weather events, they’re not just learning about the future—they’re shaping it.

We couldn’t be prouder of these Cubs, who show us every day that real change happens when great minds work together.