Participant Events

Event Times

Our Showcase takes place Apr. 30 and May 1, 2027, but The Tech Challenge is more than just this culminating event. It is a rich and intensive program with supporting events that will help participants get the most out of this experience.

Interest Session

Are you considering the 2026 Tech Challenge and curious to learn more? Beginning in October, these interest sessions are a great place to learn more about some of the ins-and-outs of The Tech Challenge for those still deciding whether to register. Get some tips about the process, the time commitment, and why people participate year after year!

Registration and more information coming in October.

 

Current dates and times include:

  • Oct. 7, 2026: Presentation + Q&A (Recorded) 5 p.m. (via Zoom) 
  • Oct. 20: Interest Session Q&A only 5 p.m. (via Zoom)
  • Nov. 3, Interest Session Q&A only 5 p.m. (via Zoom) 
  • Nov. 18, Interest Session Q&A only 5 p.m. (via Zoom)
  • Dec. 1, Interest Session Q&A only 5 p.m. (via Zoom)
  • Dec. 16, Interest Session Q&A only 5 p.m. (via Zoom)

Events for Registered Teams

This year, teams that have registered for The Tech Challenge also have access to the following events.

Team Orientation

2026 TACK session

Beginning in November these workshops provide hands-on activities for teams and advisers to understand the challenge and build collaboration. In addition to in-person sessions, we will also offer an asynchronous online course. 

Registration and more information coming in mid-October. 

Current dates and times include: 

  • Nov. 14, 2026: 10-11:30 a.m. (at The Tech Interactive) 
  • Nov. 14, 2026: 1-3:30 p.m. (at The Tech Interactive) 
  • Jan. 23, 2027: 10-11:30 a.m. (at The Tech Interactive) 
  • Jan. 23, 2027: 1-3:30 p.m. (at The Tech Interactive) 

Adviser Learning Series

This year registered advisors will also have access to our Adviser Learning Series. These interactive sessions led over Zoom will cover topics including Mindsets and Collaboration, Journaling, Failing Forward, and Team Presentation and Showcase. The series begins in November and continues throughout the challenge process.

 

  • Nov. 10, 2026 Adviser Learning Series #1 - Mindsets and Collaboration: 10-11 a.m. and 5-6 p.m. (via Zoom) 
  • Jan. 12, 2027 Adviser Learning Series #2 - Journaling 10-11 a.m. and 5-6 p.m. (via Zoom) 
  • Feb. 9, 2027 Adviser Learning Series #3 - Failing Forward 10-11 a.m. and 5-6 p.m. (via Zoom) 
  • Mar. 9, 2027 Adviser Learning Series #4 - Team Presentation and Showcase 10-11 a.m. and 5-6 p.m. (via Zoom)

Test Trials

Iteration and testing are an essential part of The Tech Challenge. Test Trials provide an opportunity for teams to practice sharing their solutions, test  their prototype, and get feedback from judges.

What should my team expect?
The Tech Challenge provides testing space and judging staff.
Each team will register for a 45 minute time slot.
Registration and more information coming in January.

 

Current dates include:

  • February 7, 2027- 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (at The Tech Interactive)
  • February 13, 2027- 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (at The Tech Interactive)
    • March Test Trials TBD
  • April 3, 2027 - 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (at The Tech Interactive)
  • April 4, 2027- 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (at The Tech Interactive)
  • April 17, 2027- 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (at The Tech Interactive)
  • April 24, 2027- 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (at The Tech Interactive)

Showcase

During the Showcase teams share their final designs with judges and celebrate their accomplishments with family and friends! 

This year’s Showcase will be held on Friday, April 30 and Saturday, May 1 2027

All grade levels can attend either day. 
Details will be announced in 2027. 
Check out highlights from last year and stay tuned for more details of what to expect for this year’s fun and games! 

Learn more