An Official Pennsylvania Government Website
Translate
Begin Main Content Area

​Regional Qualifying Competitions

Collage of picture of student in STEM

Overview

Regional qualifying competitions will be held at each of the Commonwealth’s Intermediate Units (IU) at a date and time identified by each IU. Locate your regional IU.

The one-day regional qualifying competition will be comprised of three phases, and each phase will be evaluated by a panel of judges determined by each IU (view the regional competition rubric - which will be updated in October - for details). The three phases are as follows:

  • Phase 1 - Device/Project Documentation: 1,000-word document submitted prior to the regional qualifying competition
  • Phase 2 - Device/Project Presentation: 20-minute presentation during the regional qualifying competition
  • Phase 3 - Project in a Box: 30-minute activity designed to demonstrate the cohesive nature of the team to be completed during the regional qualifying competition

Rules/Requirements

Rules for PHASE 1: Device/Project Documentation

  • Research and identify a real-world challenge facing Pennsylvanians.
  • Design/create a new and innovative device to solve this problem using a stipend of $500. Proof of purchase (receipts) for all components used in the creation of the device is required.
  • Document their journey throughout the duration of this project and submit this documentation to the regional IU prior to competition. While not a requirement at the regional qualifying competition, it is highly recommended that all teams keep a video journal as required by the state competition.
  • Project documentation will be evaluated based on the criteria outlined in the rubric.

Rules for PHASE 2: Device/Project Presentation

  • Demonstrate device to a panel of judges.
  • Articulate the purpose of the device to address a local community need and how it benefit to Pennsylvanians.
  • Document and communicate the Engineering Design Process.
  • Showcase craftsmanship and creativity of the device.
  • Explain scalability of the device for mass production (including calculations).
  • Articulate a plan for spending an additional $750 to improve the device if chosen as a finalist. 
  • Use visual/media graphics throughout the presentation.
  • Oral communication skills include organization of content, fluency, and confidence.

Rules for PHASE 3: Project in a Box 

  • Demonstrate the cohesive nature of the team.
  • Showcase the 4 C’s (Communication, Collaboration, Creativity, and Critical Thinking).

Regional Rubric (will be updated in October)

IU Points of Contact

Awards

Regional Awards 

Awards will be presented to all participating teams at the conclusion of the regional qualifying competitions. First place, second place, and third place teams will receive additional recognition. The first place team will move on to the state competition in May.

Statewide Awards

Prior to the competition, regional winners from each intermediate unit will be recognized. 

At the completion of the competition, Grand Champion, First Runner Up, Second Runner Up and Third Runner Up teams will be recognized and a college scholarship will be offered. Scholarship recipients will receive a letter containing more information.