The Provost Challenge: Meet the Winners at University of Advancing Technology (UAT)

Every competition needs a champion. At UAT the Provost Challenge ends with one team walking away as proof that innovation waits for no one.

2025 Fall Winners: Play Pals

This year’s Provost Challenge title goes to Play Pals, a dynamic cross-disciplinary team that proved what fearless innovation looks like on Day One.

Team Members:

• EXL Lead: Talon Maier – Game Art & Animation

• Faraz Abrarahadi – Network Security

• Joshua Christopherson – Advancing Computer Science

• Gustavo Gamboa – Network Security

• Brenden Jaffey – Game Design

• Luisa Perez Ruiz – Game Art & Animation

• Cody Gordon – Robotics Engineering

• Anaya Ruiz – Advertising Arts

• Lincoln Willison – Robotics Engineering

• Philander Akins – Digital Production

Their project stood out for its creativity, technical execution, and the ability to pitch under pressure. Judges praised the clear teamwork, polished prototype, and infectious enthusiasm that carried through every moment of their presentation.

Notable Mentions

The competition was stacked with strong contenders. Judges highlighted several projects that could have taken the crown in another year:

• Gambot impressed by letting the audience play mid-presentation — “getting the working version in front of people while you’re presenting is really powerful, and you nailed it.”

• Brain Bark was hailed as “what good looks like” in presentation style, with engaging demos and a polished delivery.

• Power Trash wowed with raw tech prowess, training an AI on thousands of data points in just days.

• Curse the Cat and Picaro showcased complex design, strong art, and features that had judges saying, “If there was a product I’d want to buy, it was that.”

While only one team could win, the entire showcase proved that UAT students don’t just build projects — they build the future.

Why It Matters to Students

Winning isn’t just bragging rights—it’s a résumé headline. Past winners have showcased their Provost Challenge projects in portfolios, interviews, and even internships. Many projects evolve into full Student Innovation Projects (SIP).

For more proof of student success, check out our Student Accolades.

Celebrating Innovation at UAT

The Provost Challenge winner sets the tone for the incoming class. It’s proof that with the right team, the right challenge, and a little caffeine, you can build the future on Day One.

Missed the action? Start with the Provost Challenge intro, or see the student presentations.

FAQs

Q1: How is the winner of the Provost Challenge at UAT selected?
By a judging panel of faculty and staff, weighing creativity, teamwork, functionality, and presentation.

Q2: What do winners receive?
Recognition on campus, résumé credibility, and a place in UAT history.

Q3: Can multiple teams win?
Typically, one team wins overall, though honorable mentions are sometimes awarded.

Q4: Where can I see past winning projects?
On the Student Accolades page.

Q5: Why is winning valuable for students?
It boosts portfolios, builds confidence, and shows employers proven innovation skills.

Ready to Compete for Real?

👉 Apply to UAT

👉 Request Information

At UAT, innovation doesn’t just happen—it wins.

Curious about the full journey? Start with the Provost Challenge Outline and explore the Provost Challenge Presentations.