Imagine a world designed by the mathematical minds participating in COMAP's Mathematical Contest in Modeling (MCM)® and Interdisciplinary Contest in Modeling (ICM)®. These competitions have addressed various problems, from optimizing urban infrastructure to planning interplanetary colonies. 

Let's explore how our world might look if these teams, who have tackled some pretty tough real-world problems in past years of the MCM/ICM competition, were at the helm of designing our future.

Cities That Work for Everyone

In 2017, MCM teams took on the challenge of improving passenger flow through airport security checkpoints. Participants who selected this problem analyzed how people move and then created strategies to reduce bottlenecks.

Imagine applying those same methods to cities. With innovative models that predict pedestrian and vehicle movements, transportation systems could become more efficient, reducing traffic jams and travel time. Streets, parks, and public spaces would be designed to work together, reducing environmental impact while making daily life smoother and more enjoyable.

Saving Wildlife Through Smarter Strategies

The 2024 ICM Problem F asked teams to tackle the illegal wildlife trade, threatening countless species.

ICM teams could take what they know about data and modeling to help conservation groups design better policies for protecting endangered species. By tracking animal populations and identifying risks, they could give wildlife a fighting chance. Their work would also help keep ecosystems healthy for the future.

Planning Life Beyond Earth

In the 2022 contest, ICM participants attempted to figure out how humans could live in space... a task that’s as exciting as it is daunting!

They tackled problems like managing resources, keeping life support systems running, and designing structures that could withstand the harsh realities of space. The work they did could be a big step in forging future colonies on planets like Mars.

Designing Better Water Distribution Systems

In 2019, MCM participants were tasked with a critical challenge: design a water distribution system for a region facing increasing demands. This wasn’t just about turning on the faucet; it involved tackling questions about infrastructure, population growth, and the environmental impact of water use.

Imagine applying these models on a global scale. MCM teams could help cities and rural areas optimize how water is delivered, reducing waste, and making sure everyone has access to clean water. This could change how communities manage one of our most vital resources.

Balancing Growth and Sustainability

In 2023, ICM teams worked on figuring out how to prioritize the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. They tackled the tough question of how to grow economically without destroying the planet in the process.

These ICM teams could use their modeling skills to help governments and businesses make better decisions about where to invest. They could analyze the long-term impact of a variety of different decisions. And it might help us create a future where progress doesn’t come at the expense of the next generation.

Just imagine what the world and the future could look like with more math modelers at the helm. Join the MCM/ICM contests and become one of these brilliant minds. And if you participated in the past, be sure to let potential employers know – you have valuable skills and the future is waiting to be modeled!

Learn more about the MCM/ICM contest here. And read up on more past MCM/ICM problems like those included in this post.