(KMZA)--A local student team is heading to the world stage after an impressive showing at the state level.

The Nemaha Central Elementary and Middle School team known as the “WINders,” based in Seneca, earned second place in the sixth through eighth grade generator division at the KidWind State Competition, held April 11 in Salina.

Thirteen teams were crowned state champions during the day-long event. Teams finishing first or second in their divisions qualify for the World KidWind Challenge, coming up in May in Madison, Wisconsin.

The WINders secured their spot after advancing through regional competition. Organizers say a record 106 teams competed at six regional events this year, with 35 teams from 25 schools moving on to state.

KidWind is open to students in grades four through twelve. Teams of three to five students design and build wind turbines, which are judged on energy output, design quality, and their understanding of wind energy concepts.