The device works quicker than the average smoke detector by using a thermal camera. "That was really moving for my family because it was something that we had never really experienced before," Gill told Insider. It inspired her to create a fire-detection device that could identify fires faster than an average smoke detector and send a text to users to alert them of a fire. Ajmera told Insider the 30 finalists were judged on two factors: the projects themselves and a series of surprise challenges they completed in pre-assigned teams. "During the challenges and throughout the competition, what we understand is she exhibited leadership, collaboration, she exhibited grace, and critical thinking skills," Ajmera told Insider.

---

Persons: Shanya Gill, Gill, —, She's, Ajmera, Society for Science Gill, that's Organizations: Service, Fisher Scientific, Society for Science, Competition