STUDENTS

Applying leadership and 21st century skills, participants demonstrate knowledge of artificial intelligence (AI) concepts, models, and best practices by completing a test to qualify for semifinals. Semifinalist teams solve an onsite problem(s) using a generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tool. Completed solutions are objectively measured to determine the best solution for the stated problem.

Applying leadership and 21st century skills, participants collaborate to engineer and prototype an automated manufacturing system to solve a production problem. Teams analyze the prompt, build a sensor-based mechatronic solution, program the automation logic, document the mechanical and software design, and create instructions for judges to operate the system.

Applying leadership and 21st century skills, participants respond to a cybersecurity challenge by identifying a breach in computer security via “Capture the Flag” games. Areas of challenge might include exploit development, digital puzzles, cryptography, reverse engineering, binary analysis, mobile security, etc. Participants must accurately address a series of on-site problems within a specified, limited amount of time.

Participants identify a societal issue, collect or compile data from various sources about the issue, and then produce documentation and a digital scientific poster about their findings. Semifinalists create a synopsis and digital visual representation of a data set provided in an onsite challenge.

Participants use their knowledge of cutting-edge technologies, algorithm design, problem-solving principles, effective communication, and collaboration to design, implement, test, document, and present a software development project of educational or social value. Both semifinalists and finalists are determined based on the quality of the presentation and project.

Participants design, build, and launch an E-rated online video game – with accompanying required documentation - that addresses the annual theme. Semifinalists participate in an interview to demonstrate the knowledge and expertise they gained during the development of the game.

In response to the annual theme, participants conduct research on a sustainable architectural design for a home in a specified country. They then produce a portfolio and create a display and a model. Semifinalists present their design and participate in an interview.

Participants deliver a timed speech that relates to the theme of the current national TSA conference. Semifinalists and finalists are determined using the same competition procedure.

Participants use problem-solving skills to design and build a solution to an onsite challenge. Solutions are evaluated using measures appropriate to the challenge, such as elapsed time, horizontal or vertical distance, and/or strength.

Participants create and submit a marketing portfolio and required elements that address the annual theme/problem. Semifinalists complete a layout and design assignment for evaluation.

Participants design, build, document, and test a robot assembled using open-sourced parts according to stated specifications and to meet the challenge of the yearly theme/problem.

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.