Below you will find a summary description of the 2019 and 2020 high school TSA competitions. Click on a category to filter the competitions. (More detailed specifications and rules regarding each event can be found in the "TSA High School Competitive Events Guide for the 2019 and 2020 National TSA Conference.")
You can also view and download the TSA high school competitions eligibility chart applicable to the 2020 National TSA Conference. (State delegations may choose to alter their events for local conferences. Click on your state to preview the requirements pertaining to your regional and/or state conferences.)
For event entries submitted pre-conference:
- A link will be provided approximately one month prior to the deadline of May 15th on the Competition Updates page.
- This submission procedure applies ONLY to entries for the National TSA Conference, not state TSA conference entries.
- Email verification of each team's entry will be made by June 10th to the email provided during submission.
Each participant/team shall submit only one [1] entry for the following competitive events.
TSA High School Competitions | Career Categories
Click on a category below to view a list of TSA high school competitions and their summary descriptions in that category:
Forensic Science
Participants (one [1] team of two [2] individuals per chapter) take a written test of basic forensic science theory to qualify as semifinalists. Semifinalist teams will examine a mock crime scene and demonstrate their knowledge of forensic science and crime scene analysis. Students will be expected to survey the scene and use proper techniques to collect evidence from the mock crime scene. Students then will collect their data and perform a detailed written analysis of the crime scene.
Future Technology Teacher
Participants (two [2] individuals per chapter) investigate technology education preparation programs in higher education and test their potential as a future technology educator.
Information Technology Fundamentals+ Certification - CompTIA
Participants (one [1] individual with a maximum of three (3) individuals per chapter) demonstrate understanding of and expertise in basic information technology concepts by taking an online exam. Certifications will be granted through TSA’s partnership with CompTIA for a passing score.
Learn more.
Music Production
Participants (three [3] teams per state; an individual may participate solo in this team event) produce an original musical piece that is designed to be played during the National TSA Conference opening or closing general sessions.
On Demand Video
Participants (one [1] team of two to six [2–6] individuals per chapter) write, shoot, and edit a 60–second video onsite during the conference.
Photographic Technology
Participants (one [1] individual per chapter) demonstrate understanding of and expertise in using photographic and imaging technology processes to convey a message based on a theme. Semifinalists record images and then utilize graphic editing software to prepare a single final image as a solution to an onsite prompt.
Prepared Presentation
Participants (three [3] individuals per state) deliver an oral presentation, using a digital slide deck, on a topic provided onsite.
Promotional Design
Participants (three [3] individuals per state) use computerized graphic communications layout and design skills in the production of a promotional resource for TSA.
Scientific Visualization (SciVis)
Participants (three [3] teams per state; an individual may participate solo in this team event) use either 2D or 3D computer graphics tools and design processes to communicate, inform, analyze, and/or illustrate a STEM topic, idea, subject, or concept.
Software Development
Participants (one [1] team per chapter) use knowledge of cutting-edge technologies, algorithm design, problem-solving principles, effective communication, and collaborative teamwork to design, implement, test, and document a software development project of educational or social value.
Structural Design and Engineering
Participants (one [1] team of two [2] individuals per chapter) work as a team to build a designated structure that is posted on the TSA website. Teams apply the principles of structural design and engineering through research, design, construction, destructive testing, and assessment to determine the design efficiency of the structure.
System Control Technology
Participants (one [1] team of three [3] individuals per state) work onsite to develop a computer-controlled model-solution to a problem, typically one from an industrial setting. Teams analyze the problem, build a computer-controlled mechanical model, program the model, explain the program and mechanical features of the model-solution, and write instructions for evaluators to operate the device.
Technology Bowl
Participants (one [1] team of three [3] individuals per chapter) demonstrate their knowledge of TSA and concepts addressed in the technology content standards by completing a written, objective test. Semifinalist teams participate in question/response, head-to-head team competition.
Technology Problem Solving
Participants (one [1] team of two [2] individuals per chapter) use their skills in problem solving to develop a finite solution to a problem provided onsite.
Transportation Modeling
Participants (one [1] individual per chapter) research, design, and produce a scale model of a vehicle that fits the annual design problem.
VEX Robotics Competition
Participants (three [3] teams per state) collaborate on a robotics project that explores the relationship among STEM fields, culminating in a head-to-head game to test their robot's efficiency and productivity.
Learn more.
Video Game Design
Participants (three [3] teams per state) develop a game that reflects the theme for the year, which can be found on
Themes and Problems. The game must have high artistic, educational, and social value and be interesting, exciting, visually appealing, and intellectually challenging. Participants submit the entry pre-conference by May 15th.
Webmaster
Participants (one [1] team of three to five [3–5] individuals per chapter) design, build, and launch a website that features the school’s career and technology/engineering program, TSA chapter, and the chapter’s ability to research and present a given topic pertaining to technology. Semifinalists participate in an onsite interview to demonstrate the knowledge and expertise gained during the development of the website—with an emphasis on web design methods and practices, as well as their research for the annual design topic. Participants submit the entry pre-conference by May 15th.