High school students build airplane in Arlington (Photos)

ARLINGTON, Wash. -- Four high school students from Texas spent the last two weeks building an airplane.

An airplane. What have you done with your month?

The Aviation Design Challenge, now in its fifth year, is organized by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association. The purpose is to promote the real-world application of STEM studies.

After helping prepare the aircraft for its initial run-up, the students pushed the plane out of its hangar and watched as owner and builder of record Ken Baur turned over the engine and taxied the plane for its first time.  An FAA inspection is expected soon and an initial flight soon thereafter.

Above is a photo gallery of the students building the plane. For more on the contest, head to the Aviation Design Challenge's website.