Introduction to Engineering Competitions One of the most coveted and directly channeled fields for high school STEM students around the globe in 2024 to pursue is engineering, as it combines math, science, and job opportunity all in one to help the world.

However, unlike other STEM categories like pure science or math, competitions in engineering, which are a great way to boost your college admissions chances, are not as commonly known and pursued after.

That is why today, we will be going through the top 10 best engineering competitions for high school students in 202

4. Let's go!

Top 10 Engineering Competitions 2024

1. FIRST Robotics Competition Description: The FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) is an electrifying blend of engineering, teamwork, and spirited competition.

Founded by inventor Dean Kamen and Woodie Flowers in 1992, FRC aims to inspire young minds to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Here are the key aspects: The Challenge: Each year, FRC unveils a new game with a unique theme.

Teams receive a detailed game manual that outlines the rules, objectives, and constraints.

The challenge involves designing and building a robot that can perform specific tasks within the game’s dynamic environment.

These tasks can range from stacking cubes to shooting balls into goals or climbing obstacles.

Team Formation: High school teams from around the world participate in FRC.

These teams consist of students, mentors, and sponsors.

Students take on various roles, including mechanical design, programming, electrical systems, strategy, and outreach.

Build Season: The heart of FRC is the intense six-week build season.

Starting in early January, teams work tirelessly to design, prototype, fabricate, and assemble their robots.

They brainstorm ideas, create CAD models, machine parts, and wire electrical systems.

The clock is ticking, and creativity is at its peak.

Kit of Parts: FRC provides teams with a standard “Kit of Parts” (KOP), which includes motors, sensors, pneumatics, and other components.

However, teams can also use custom parts and materials to enhance their designs.

Gracious Professionalism: FRC emphasizes the value of “gracious professionalism. ” Teams collaborate, share ideas, and help each other.

Even in the heat of competition, they maintain respect and cooperation.

It’s not just about winning; it’s about learning, growing, and supporting fellow teams.

Regional Competitions: Once the build season ends, teams compete in regional events.

These events take place in various cities and countries.

Robots battle it out on intricate playing fields, aiming to score points by completing game-specific tasks.

Judges evaluate not only robot performance but also team spirit, safety practices, and community involvement.

The Pit Area: At competitions, each team has a pit area—a bustling workshop where they fine-tune their robots, troubleshoot issues, and make last-minute adjustments.

It’s a hive of activity, with students wielding wrenches, laptops, and determination.

Alliances and Elimination Rounds: FRC introduces a unique twist: alliance-based gameplay.

Teams form alliances with other teams, creating temporary partnerships.

During elimination rounds, alliances compete head-to-head.

Strategy, communication, and adaptability are crucial.

Championships: The pinnacle of FRC is the FIRST Championship, held annually in Houston, Texas, and Detroit, Michigan.

Thousands of students gather to showcase their robots, share experiences, and celebrate STEM.

The energy is electric as teams vie for the title of world champion.

Impact Beyond the Robot: FRC isn’t just about building robots; it’s about building futures.

Students learn technical skills, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.

They gain confidence, discover their passions, and forge lifelong friendships.

FRC alumni often pursue careers in engineering, computer science, and related fields.

2. Science Olympiad Description: The Science Olympiad is a prestigious and multifaceted STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) competition for middle school and high school students.

Founded in 1984, it aims to promote scientific inquiry, teamwork, and hands-on learning.

Here are the key aspects: Team-Based Competition: Science Olympiad operates as a team-based competition.

Schools form teams, typically consisting of 15 students, who collaborate across various scientific disciplines.

Each team prepares for a wide range of events, covering topics from biology and chemistry to engineering and astronomy.

Diverse Events: Science Olympiad offers a diverse array of events, categorized into three main types: Knowledge-Based Events: These involve written exams on specific scientific topics, such as anatomy, geology, or meteorology.

Lab-Based Events: Students perform experiments, analyze data, and solve problems in controlled lab settings.

Examples include testing water quality, identifying minerals, or conducting forensic investigations.

Building and Engineering Events: Participants design and construct devices, bridges, vehicles, or other structures.

They apply principles of physics, materials science, and engineering to create functional prototypes.

Regional, State, and National Tournaments: The Science Olympiad season begins with regional tournaments, where teams compete locally.

Top-performing teams advance to state-level competitions, and the best state teams qualify for the national championship.

At each level, students showcase their knowledge, skills, and creativity.

They present projects, demonstrate hands-on abilities, and engage in spirited competition.

Collaboration and Sportsmanship: Science Olympiad emphasizes collaboration and sportsmanship.

Teams share resources, help one another, and celebrate each other’s achievements.

It’s not just about winning; it’s about fostering a love for science and building a supportive community.

Event Topics: Event topics vary widely.

Some examples include: Anatomy and Physiology: Identifying organs, tissues, and systems in the human body.

Chemistry Lab: Conducting chemical experiments and analyzing results.

Mission Possible: Building a Rube Goldberg-like machine to perform a sequence of tasks.

Wright Stuff: Designing and flying rubber-powered model airplanes.

Boomilever: Constructing a cantilevered structure to hold a maximum load.

Astronomy: Answering questions related to celestial objects and phenomena.

Dynamic Planet: Investigating Earth’s geology, climate, and natural disasters.

Community Involvement:Science Olympiad inspires young minds to explore science beyond textbooks.

It encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

Participants gain exposure to real-world scientific challenges and develop lifelong skills.

Many successful scientists, engineers, and researchers credit Science Olympiad as a pivotal experience that ignited their passion for STEM.

Beyond competitions, Science Olympiad teams engage in community outreach.

They organize science fairs, mentor younger students, and participate in service projects.

It’s a holistic approach to science education.

3. Vex Robotics Competition Description: The VEX Robotics Competition is a global platform that empowers middle school and high school students to learn and apply STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) skills through robotics challenges.

Founded by Innovation First International, VEX Robotics provides an engaging and hands-on experience for students.

Here are the key highlights: Design, Build, and Program Robots: In VRC, teams of students design, build, and program robots using the VEX V5 Construction and Control System.

This system includes standardized parts, motors, sensors, and a powerful microcontroller.

Students learn about mechanical design, electronics, and coding as they create functional robots.

Tournaments and Competitions: VEX competitions take place year-round at various levels: Local Tournaments: Teams compete in local events organized by schools or community centers.

Regional and State Tournaments: Winning teams from local tournaments advance to regional and state-level competitions.

National and World Championships: The pinnacle of VRC, these events bring together top teams from around the globe.

The VEX Robotics World Championship, held annually in April, is a thrilling showcase of innovation and teamwork.

Game-Specific Challenges:Each season, VRC unveils a new game with a specific theme.

Teams receive a game manual detailing the rules, objectives, and constraints.

The challenge involves designing a robot that can complete game-specific tasks.

Examples include stacking cubes, launching balls, or navigating obstacle courses.

Alliances and Strategy:VRC introduces alliance-based gameplay.

Teams form alliances with other teams, creating temporary partnerships.

During matches, alliances collaborate strategically to maximize their scores.

Communication, teamwork, and adaptability are essential.

Skills Challenges:Beyond standard matches, VRC includes Robot Skills Challenges.

In these solo events, a single robot competes against the clock.

Students aim to achieve the highest score by completing specific tasks efficientlyOnline Challenges:VEX offers unique Online Challenges, such as CAD design, animation, essays, and more.

Students can showcase their creativity and problem-solving abilities beyond the physical robotSTEM Research Project:VRC encourages students to engage in a STEM Research Project.

Using the scientific method, teams research and propose solutions to real-world challenges.

It’s an opportunity to explore interdisciplinary topics and present findingsImpact and Career Pathways:VRC participants report increased interest in STEM subjects and a desire to pursue STEM-related careers.

The program fosters critical thinking, project management, and resilience.

Many VRC alumni go on to study engineering, computer science, and related fieldsThe REC Foundation:The Robotics Education & Competition Foundation (REC Foundation) oversees VRC.

As a global nonprofit organization, REC Foundation aims to increase student engagement in STEM and computer science.

Through competitions, education, and workforce readiness initiatives, they empower educators and inspire students to meet global challenges.

4. RoboRave International: Description: RoboRAVE International is a global organization dedicated to promoting learning and innovation in robotics and technology among young people of all ages.

Founded with a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), RoboRAVE provides workshops, events, and competitions that empower students to program, build, and creatively use robots.

Mission and Vision: RoboRAVE’s mission is to inspire the next generation of problem solvers, inventors, and engineers.

By fostering hands-on experiences, critical thinking, and ethical technology use, they aim to create a community of lifelong learners.

Educational Workshops: RoboRAVE offers engaging robotics workshops worldwide.

These workshops introduce students to programming, electronics, and mechanical design.

Participants learn to assemble robots, write code, and explore real-world applications.

Competitions and Challenges: RoboRAVE Competitions are at the heart of the organization.

Here’s what they entail: Autonomous Robots: Teams design, build, and program autonomous robots to complete specific tasks.

The focus is on creativity, precision, and problem-solving.

Sumo Robots: Robots battle in a sumo ring, aiming to push opponents out.

It’s a thrilling collision of engineering and strategy.

Line Following: Robots follow intricate paths, detecting and responding to lines or patterns.

Students learn about sensors and control algorithms.

Drone Challenges: Participants pilot drones through obstacle courses, testing their piloting skills and spatial awareness.

Maze Solving: Robots navigate complex mazes, applying algorithms to find the shortest path.

Open Category: Teams showcase their unique robot designs, from dancing robots to art-making machines.

STEM Research and Creativity:RoboRAVE encourages students to explore STEM research projects.

Whether it’s investigating environmental issues, designing assistive devices, or exploring artificial intelligence, students delve into interdisciplinary topics.

They present their findings, sparking curiosity and innovationEthical Technology Use:RoboRAVE emphasizes ethical and responsible technology use.

Participants learn about privacy, security, and the impact of robotics on society.

It’s not just about building robots; it’s about using technology for the greater goodGlobal Reach:RoboRAVE’s impact extends across borders.

From the United States to Mexico, Europe, Asia, and beyond, students come together to celebrate robotics.

The organization collaborates with schools, universities, and industry partners to create a vibrant ecosystemCommunity Engagement:Beyond competitions, RoboRAVE fosters community engagement.

Students mentor younger peers, organize outreach events, and share their passion for robotics.

It’s about giving back and inspiring others.

Innovation and Lifelong Learning:RoboRAVE isn’t just an event; it’s a mindset.

Participants develop problem-solving skills, resilience, and adaptability.

Many continue their STEM journeys, pursuing careers in engineering, computer science, and related fields.

5. International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) Description: The International Science and Engineering Fair, sponsored by Regeneron and managed by the Society for Science, is an annual science competition for pre-college students around the world.

Its primary goal is to showcase independent research projects conducted by young innovators.

Here are the key highlights: Global Participation: ISEF brings together students from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and regions.

Participants represent their countries, schools, and scientific interests.

It’s a celebration of curiosity and intellectual exploration.

Research Projects: Students conduct original research in various fields, including biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, and computer science.

They investigate scientific questions, collect data, analyze results, and draw conclusions.

Projects range from environmental studies and medical breakthroughs to technological innovations and social impact research.

Affiliated Fairs: Competing at ISEF starts at a Society-affiliated fair.

These local, regional, or national science fairs serve as qualifying events.

Students present their research and earn the opportunity to advance to ISEF.

Affiliated fairs provide a platform for students to showcase their work, receive feedback from judges, and connect with like-minded peers.

Categories and Subcategories: ISEF features a wide range of research categories, each with specific subcategories.

Examples include: Biomedical and Health Sciences: Investigating diseases, medical treatments, and human health.

Engineering: Designing solutions, building prototypes, and addressing real-world challenges.

Environmental Sciences: Studying ecosystems, climate change, and conservation.

Computer Science: Developing software, algorithms, and computational models.

Physics and Astronomy: Exploring the cosmos, energy, and fundamental forces.

Judging and Awards: At ISEF, students present their projects to expert judges.

These judges evaluate scientific rigor, creativity, and communication skills.

Awards recognize excellence in specific categories, research methods, and innovation.

Finalists compete for nearly $9 million in awards, scholarships, and prizes.

The top award—the Regeneron Science Talent Search Grand Prize—is a prestigious honor.

Education Outreach Day: ISEF hosts an Education Outreach Day, inviting local middle and high school students.

These students engage in hands-on, interactive STEM activities led by ISEF participants.

It’s a way to inspire the next generation of scientists.

Ethical Considerations: ISEF emphasizes ethical conduct in research.

Students learn about responsible experimentation, data integrity, and the impact of their work on society.

Virtual Fair and Global Impact: In addition to the in-person event, ISEF includes a virtual fair where finalists share their projects online.

This extends the reach of ISEF to a global audience.

ISEF alumni have gone on to make significant contributions to science, technology, and humanity.

PlayISEF is one of the most prestigious and difficult to win contests out there.

If you want to learn directly from a past ISEF winner and Harvard Undergraduate precisely how you can win it, then check out the video above!

6. American Rocketry Challenge Overview: The American Rocketry Challenge is the world’s largest rocket contest with nearly 5,000 students nationwide competing each year.

This exciting competition provides middle and high school students the opportunity to design, build, and launch model rockets and gain hands-on experience solving engineering problems.

Design and Build Rockets: Participants dive into aerodynamics, materials, and propulsion systems.

They create model rockets from scratch, applying scientific principles to achieve stability, altitude, and precision.

Launch Model Rockets: The heart of the challenge lies in launching these rockets.

Students witness their creations soar into the sky, applying physics and mathematics to achieve optimal flight.

Solve Engineering Problems: Rocketry involves complex engineering challenges.

Students tackle issues related to stability, weight distribution, recovery mechanisms, and safety.

It’s practical STEM education in action.

Qualification Flights: To qualify for the national final fly-off event, teams must conduct at least two qualifying flights observed by an adult member of the National Association of Rocketry (NAR).

These flights demonstrate the rocket’s performance and adherence to rules.

The deadline for submission is April

8. National Finals: The pinnacle of the challenge is the National Finals, held at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia.

Top teams from across the country compete, showcasing their rocketry skills and teamwork.

Awards and Recognition: Teams vie for awards, scholarships, and recognition.

The winning team earns the title of National Champion.

It’s a testament to their innovation and problem-solving abilities.

Global Impact: Beyond rockets, the American Rocketry Challenge inspires the next generation of aerospace professionals.

Participants learn about ethics, safety, and responsible technology use.

Alumni Success Stories: Notably, Warren “Woody” Hoburg, an alum, became a mission pilot for NASA’s SpaceX Crew-6 to the International Space Station.

Woody participated in the first-ever American Rocketry Challenge in 2003, igniting his journey to the stars.

7. Rube Goldberg Machine Challenge Overview: The Rube Goldberg Machine Challenge is an inventive and whimsical competition inspired by the legendary American cartoonist Rube Goldberg.

In these challenges, participants create intricate chain-reaction contraptions that perform a seemingly simple task in an indirect, overly complicated, and delightfully convoluted way.

Design Philosophy: Rube Goldberg machines celebrate creativity, absurdity, and the joy of overengineering.

Participants use everyday objects, found materials, and their imaginations to construct elaborate sequences of actions.

Task Complexity: The challenge lies in achieving a specific goal (such as turning on a light switch, pouring a cup of coffee, or opening an umbrella) using a minimum of 20 steps and a maximum of 75 steps.

Each step must trigger the next, creating a delightful domino effect.

Incorporating Simple Machines: Participants must incorporate at least six different simple machines into their Rube Goldberg machines.

These machines include levers, pulleys, inclined planes, wedges, screws, and wheels and axles.

Creativity and Storytelling: Beyond functionality, Rube Goldberg machines tell a whimsical story.

Participants infuse their contraptions with humor, surprise, and unexpected twists.

The more absurd and entertaining, the better!

Educational Value: The challenge fosters an understanding of physics, engineering, and cause-and-effect relationships.

Participants learn about energy transfer, friction, momentum, and balance.

Community and Competitions: Rube Goldberg Machine Challenges often take place at schools, maker fairs, and community events.

Participants collaborate, share ideas, and celebrate their quirky inventions.

Legacy of Rube Goldberg: Rube Goldberg (1883–1970) was a Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist known for his satirical illustrations of complex, impractical machines.

His legacy lives on through these delightful challenges.

8. NASA Human Exploration Rover Challenge (HERC) Overview: The NASA Human Exploration Rover Challenge is an exhilarating engineering design competition that engages students in the next phase of human space exploration.

Hosted by NASA, this annual event challenges student teams to create human-powered rovers capable of traversing simulated surfaces of other worlds and completing mission tasks along the way.

Event Dates and Location: The HERC typically takes place in April.

For instance, the 2024 event is scheduled for April 19-2

0. Participants gather at the U.

S.

Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama—a fitting location for a challenge that echoes the spirit of space exploration.

Eligibility: The HERC is open to both U.

S. and international students across various grade levels, including high school, college, and university.

Design and Development: Teams from schools worldwide embark on a journey to design, develop, build, and test their very own human-powered rovers.

These rovers must be capable of navigating challenging terrains, simulating conditions encountered during space missions.

Course Map and Challenges: The HERC course features a variety of obstacles, including craters, rocky surfaces, and uneven terrain.

Teams must strategize and adapt their rover designs to overcome these challenges.

The course descriptions and design guidelines are outlined in the HERC Handbook, which provides essential information for participating teams.

STEM Education and Inspiration: The HERC isn’t just about building rovers; it’s about inspiring the next generation of space explorers.

Students gain hands-on experience, apply STEM principles, and learn about teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation.

Authenticity and Artemis: The HERC aligns with NASA’s Artemis program—a bold initiative to return humans to the Moon and pave the way for future crewed missions to Mars.

By participating in the HERC, students contribute to authentic, hands-on learning experiences that mirror the challenges faced by astronauts.

Contact and Participation: Interested students and educators can find detailed information in the HERC Handbook.

Questions regarding registration, logistics, or event operations can be directed to HERC@mail. nasa. gov.

The HERC Implementation Team at the Marshall Space Flight Center oversees the challenge and ensures its success.

9. Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) ROV Competition Overview: The MATE ROV Competition is an engaging and challenging event that invites student teams to design, build, and operate remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) for underwater exploration.

Hosted by the Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) program, this competition combines science, technology, engineering, and teamwork.

Here are the key highlights: Mission and Purpose: The MATE ROV Competition aims to: Inspire: It sparks students’ interest in marine technology, oceanography, and environmental science.

Educate: Participants learn about engineering, robotics, and underwater systems.

Simulate Real-World Scenarios: Teams tackle tasks that mimic real-world challenges faced by oceanographers, researchers, and industry professionalsDesign and Build ROVs:Student teams, guided by teachers and mentors, create their unique ROVs.

These underwater robots must perform specific tasks related to exploration, data collection, and problem-solvingScience-Based Missions:At the Dauphin Island Sea Lab (DISL), teams compete against peers from across the Gulf coast.

They undertake a series of science-based missions, such asSTEM Learning and CollaborationThe competition fosters:STEM Skills: Participants apply science, technology, engineering, and math conceptsAuthenticity and Real-World Applications:The MATE ROV Competition mirrors the work of oceanographers, marine biologists, and engineers.

Students gain insights into underwater exploration and environmental monitoringGlobal Community:The MATE ROV Competition engages a global community of learners.

Students from different backgrounds come together to celebrate innovation and curiosityLegacy of MATE:MATE, in partnership with the Marine Technology Society ROV Committee, created this competition to: Collecting Samples: ROVs retrieve samples from the seafloor.

Navigating Obstacles: Maneuvering through underwater obstacles.

Deploying Instruments: Placing sensors or instruments in precise locations.

Critical Thinking: Teams strategize, troubleshoot, and adapt during missions.

Teamwork: Collaboration is essential for success.

Engage Students in STEM: It exposes them to science and technology careers.

Develop Technical and Teamwork Skills: Participants learn problem-solving and collaboration. 1

0. Technology Student Association (TSA) High School Competitions Overview: The TSA High School Competitions offer an exciting array of challenges for students passionate about technology, engineering, and innovation.

As part of the Technology Student Association, high school participants engage in hands-on, competitive events that span various STEM disciplines.

Here are the key highlights: Eligibility and National Conference: The eligibility requirements for each competition apply to the national TSA conference.

While state delegations may customize events for local conferences, the national guidelines remain consistent.

Participants submit only one entry for each competitive event.

Career Categories: TSA High School Competitions cover a wide range of career categories.

Let’s explore some of them: Architecture and Construction Technology: Participants create architectural plans, construct physical and computer-generated models, and present their designs.

Communications Technology: Students delve into audio podcasting, storytelling, and multimedia content creation.

Computer Science and Information Technology: Challenges include coding, app development, cybersecurity, and problem-solving.

Leadership: Participants demonstrate leadership skills through parliamentary procedure tests and conduct business meetings.

Manufacturing and Transportation Technology: Events focus on manufacturing processes, transportation systems, and engineering design.

STEM (General): General STEM challenges encompass diverse topics, encouraging creativity and critical thinking.

STEM and the Arts: Participants merge STEM concepts with artistic expression, exploring the intersection of science and creativity.

Technology and Research: Students tackle contemporary biotechnology problems, architectural design, and animatronics.

Sample Competitions: Let’s take a closer look at a few specific competitions: Animatronics: Participants create animatronic devices with specific purposes, incorporating sound, lights, and an appropriate environment.

Architectural Design: Teams develop architectural plans, construct physical and computer-generated models, and present their designs.

Audio Podcasting: Students produce original podcast content addressing an annual theme, combining storytelling techniques and sound effects.

Biotechnology Design: Participants address contemporary biotechnology problems, demonstrating understanding through research, solution development, and multimedia presentations.

Board Game Design: Teams design, build, and package board games, showcasing creativity and effective game mechanics.

Chapter Team: Participants engage in parliamentary procedure tests and conduct business meetings.

Legacy and Impact: The TSA High School Competitions inspire future engineers, scientists, and leaders.

By participating, students gain practical skills, teamwork experience, and exposure to real-world challenges.

Opportunity: Do you Want to Win STEM Engineering Competitions as a High School Student in 2024?

If you feel motivated by these competitions and inspired by the legacies left behind by so many of its other victors, then we highly recommend that you get serious about trying to win.

If you want a masterclass on how to prepare for competitions like the ones listed above and more, then check out this course by a past winner below:https://www. rishabacademy. com/stem Good luck on the competitions!.