Group photo of all of the Fayette LaunchBox Shark Tank participants.

Fayette LaunchBox announces winners of high school Shark Tank competition

By: Joshua Simon

LEMONT FURNACE, Pa. — The Fayette LaunchBox named "Custom Cruisers" by Darren Dunn, Molly Wisilosky, Emma Aubele, and Matthew Schwertfeger of Laurel Highlands High School as the first-place winner in its annual high school Shark Tank competition. 

First place winners of the competition posing together.

"The Nest" by Eli Brooker and Elizabeth McCune took second place. 

Second place winners of the competition posing together.

"Future Prep" by Mazzy Tomallo, Riley Zimmerman, Carrie Jones, and Jenna Buchheit from Geibel Catholic Senior High School finished third. 

Third place winners of the competition posing together.

The event was hosted at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.

The Shark Tank competition was modeled after the popular television program on ABC, and was developed by Rachel Kaplan, assistant teaching professor of corporate communication, and Barbara Koffler, director of outreach and continuing education. The event encourages entrepreneurs to present business ideas that benefit the local marketplace.

With a commitment to entrepreneurship and a focus on providing meaningful support and resources, the Fayette LaunchBox is poised to make a real impact in the world of innovation and entrepreneurship. 

In addition to the Shark Tank Competition, the Fayette LaunchBox offers a variety of events and workshops throughout the year, covering topics such as marketing and financial management. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow an existing business, the Fayette LaunchBox can provide the resources and support you need to succeed. For more information on the program, visit fayette.psu.edu/launchbox.