Participant Events

 

Event Times

Our Showcase takes place Friday, April 30 and Saturday, 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 2027 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!

Sign-up for Interest Sessions is now open.

 

Current dates and times include:

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 advisers 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) 
  • March 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:

  • Feb. 7, 2027 - 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (at The Tech Interactive)
  • Feb. 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)

Host Tech Challenge Events

The Tech Interactive is looking for partners to host Tech Challenge events like Team Orientations and Test Trials leading up to the Showcase. These events will be run with a 60/40 execution where The Tech Interactive helps with registration and co-facilitation, while you provide staffing and an accessible location for your students and any participating students in surrounding neighborhoods.

This is a multi-year partnership where you get to become a certified Event Partner, hosting events for The Tech Challenge. Becoming an officially recognized partner of The Tech Interactive will give students in your community easier access to The Tech Challenge, giving them the opportunity to create and strengthen their STEM identity.

To be a host, you just need the capacity to accommodate a minimum of 10 external teams (at least 70 people). By opening slots to additional local teams, you become a vital community pillar for students facing transportation barriers.

In recognition of your leadership, your organization will earn a prominent feature on our website and special mainstage recognition at the Showcase.

Types of Events

You will host a variety of events for local teams:

  • Team Orientation: A process overview workshop for participants and their advisers.
  • Test Trials: A time for your local community to test their prototypes and receive feedback on their device designs before iterating and testing again.
  • Optional Events: Additional events offered based on student needs.

All local events lead up to the inspiring Showcase event at The Tech Interactive on Friday, April 30 and Saturday, May 1, 2027.

How to Become a Host Site Partner

  • Learn the Basics: Review on-demand information and submit your site intake forms. This step covers program goals, initial partner commitments, and practical how-tos.
  • Tackle Logistics: Establish firm timelines and complete event preparations. We share 60/40 co-execution and advertising responsibilities.
  • Reflect and Debrief: Share your year-one experiences at our end-of-season forum. From there we will explore your year-two path and certification options.

Are you ready to support the next generation of problem solvers? Apply to become a partner using our intake form:

Apply to Become a Partner

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