Here's the hypothesis: Wood ash may or may not be a stronger building material than sand when combined with concrete.

Here's the conclusion: Austin Van Grouw enjoyed a potentially path-altering experience and learned important life lessons.

Oh, what a grand experiment it was.

After enjoying success at the local level, Van Grouw, a rising junior at Warwick High School, competed at the prestigious International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) held in Los Angeles from May 11 to 17. The involvement got Van Grouw thinking and opened his eyes to some things, not the least of which was his future.

"I had an opportunity to present my project to experts in their field," said Van Grouw. "The international competition was very challenging, and I felt like I performed well, even though I didn't place. But it was an amazing experience. I got to meet new people and learn new cultures. I got to experience things I never had before. It was my first time on the West Coast. Most people go there for vacations, and I got to go there for a science fair."

Van Grouw and his project "The Effect of Wood Ash on the Properties of Cement" had qualified for the ISEF competition in Los Angeles by winning the senior division championship at the North Museum of Nature and Science's 72nd annual Science and Engineering Fair in early March. The North Museum's competition, which awarded prizes in 14 different senior categories, was open to all Lancaster County residents in grades seven through 12.

"I initially designed my project in my Warwick honors class to get extra credit," said Van Grouw. "Because I performed well at the Warwick Science Fair, I thought maybe I could compete or place at the North Museum Science Fair. I was motivated to compete and share my project with a lot more people."

Armed with a curiosity about engineering, Van Grouw wondered about the impacts of replacing sand with the waste product wood ash in the concrete-making process, as well as the financial and environmental effects of the application. His project, which included elements of research, construction and essay writing, required 56 hours over six months to complete.

"When I was deciding on a project topic, I wanted something in construction because I'm hoping to work in the industry," said Van Grouw. "There were definitely challenges. I learned a lot about time management through this project. That's such an important thing, not just in high school, but also in college and in the workplace."

"When I started this project, I didn't think I'd get recognition," he added. "I see it as a great opportunity for my future. I'm looking forward to the future and I'm not sure where it will lead."

Van Grouw's favorite subjects at school are technology education and art, followed by math and German. He also competes on Warwick's cross-country and track and field teams and participates in the ultimate frisbee club, the Warwick Bible Club and the quiz bowl team.

"All throughout my life, I've been part of teams, and when I was young, I was into Legos," said Van Grouw. "I've always wanted to have an impact or leave a mark on the world. I guess I've realized that no matter how hard something may seem at the beginning, if you put in the work, you're going reap the rewards."