REASONS TO JOIN TSA
- STEM competitions
- Career and technical skills development
- Leadership opportunities
- Local, regional, state, and national conferences
- Achievement Program
- Networking with members and industry professionals
- Scholarships and awards
- FUN!
COMPETITIONS
I am interested in competitions for...
High School
Middle School
Architectural Design
In response to the annual design challenge, participants develop a set of architectural plans and related materials, and construct both a physical and computer-generated model to accurately depict their design. Semifinalists deliver a presentation and participate in an interview.
Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Architecture
Participants use complex computer graphic skills, tools, and processes to respond to a design challenge in which they develop representations of architectural subjects, such as foundation and/or floor plans, and/or elevation drawings, and/or details of architectural ornamentation or cabinetry. The solution to the design challenge and participant answers in an interview are evaluated.
Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Engineering
Participants use complex computer graphic skills, tools, and processes to respond to a design challenge in which they develop three-dimensional representations of engineering subjects, such as a machine part, tool, device, or manufactured product. The solution to the design challenge and participant answers in an interview are evaluated.
Geospatial Technology
To address the issue presented in an annual theme, participants interpret geospatial data and develop a digital portfolio containing maps, data, and pertinent documentation. Semifinalists defend their projections and visual infographic during a presentation/interview.
Structural Design and Engineering
Participants apply the principles of structural engineering to design and construct a structure that complies with the annual challenge. An assessment of the required documentation and the destructive testing of the structure (to determine its design efficiency) determine both semifinalists and finalists.
Junior Solar Sprint (JSS)
Participants apply STEM concepts, creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills to design, construct, and race a solar-powered model car. Documentation of the process is required. Learn more about JSS, then register via an Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP) portal to begin the JSS journey.
Leadership Strategies
Participants prepare for and deliver a presentation about a specific challenge that officers of a TSA chapter might encounter. Semifinalists follow the same competition procedure but must respond to a different chapter challenge.
Mass Production
Participants manufacture a marketable product that addresses the annual theme. The development of the product prototype is documented in a portfolio that presents participant knowledge and skills related to the mass production process. Through a demonstration of the prototype and an interview, semifinalists support the viability of the prototype.
Mechanical Engineering
Participants design, document, and build a mechanical device (mousetrap car) that incorporates the elements of the annual theme/problem – and then race the car. Finalists are determined based on an evaluation of the documentation portfolio, the race exit interview, and the race placement.
Medical Technology
Participants conduct research on a contemporary medical technology issue related to the annual theme, document their research, create a display, and build a prototype. Semifinalists deliver a presentation about their entry and participate in an interview.
Microcontroller Design
To address the annual theme/problem, participants design and create a working digital device, document the development process, and demonstrate their product as part of a presentation.
![Six elected students to serve as the 2024-2025 National TSA Officer team.](https://tsaweb.org/images/default-source/website-images/leadership-officerteam.jpg?sfvrsn=4710d430_3)
LEADERSHIP
RESOURCES
Affiliated TSA members have access to resources to help enrich their TSA experience. Some highlights include:
PROGRAMS & INITIATIVES
- Awards and Scholarships
- Leadership Program
- National Service Project
- TSA Achievement Program, Pathways to Excellence
![Bkgd_Interior stock-photo-classmate-classroom-sharing-international-friend-concept-409247206](/images/default-source/default-album/bkgd_interior.png?sfvrsn=3f82e729_5)