Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can the uncoated cardboard extend under a can-stack? No. The uncoated cardboard is considered part of the protective structure and per Rule 10 under Protective Structure(s), "no part of the protective structure(s) … can be placed within any grid cell that contains a can-stack."

2. What can be put in our Tech provided backpack? Your team can put anything you want in the Tech provided backpack up to the weight limit. Make sure any materials, even minor repair materials, that will be left on the build area during performance runs, are in the Tech provided backpack. Tools and other items that are not part of the device and will not be left on the build during performance runs should be carried separately.

3. Should we carry items over the weight limit in our Tech provided backpack? No.

1. How do I register a team? Click here to register for The Tech Challenge. 

2. Can participants on the same team attend different schools? Yes.

3. Can a third-grader join our team? No. The Tech Challenge is designed for students in Grades 4-12 and is not age-appropriate for younger students. Teams that do not follow the division rules will be disqualified from the Challenge.

4. I am a sixth-grader and want to be on the same team as my ninth-grade brother. Is that OK? Yes, teams can have members from different grade levels. However, you will compete at the level of the team's highest grade level. For instance, even though you are in sixth grade, your team will compete in the high school competition.

1. How do I sign up for test trials? Test trial registration can be found here. Registration opens Feb. 1.

2. How important is it to attend test trials? It’s better to fail at a trial than at the showcase! There will be judges at test trials to answer questions. Test trials are a great way to troubleshoot and refine your solution. There will be several test trial events, so take full advantage!

3. How do you get the most out of the test trials? Come to as many test trials as you can, even if you don’t have a device ready to test. The head judges will be able to answer your questions and give your team feedback. Have the team talk about their experience after each trial. Ask what worked and what didn’t. Remember to document your thoughts in your engineering journal.

1. Can we get information on the details of the judging process? General information can be found in the Judging Process section. Specific details of judging are only available to Tech staff and senior volunteers assigned to help with judging. The Tech does not make available the names of judges.

2. Can we get sponsors for our team? Sure. When looking for sponsors, consider two things: what you need and who you know. Think about businesses that have the materials you are looking for and ask for donations. Or talk to friends, family, neighbors or anyone else who might want to help you. You'll want to prepare a presentation before you approach potential sponsors. Describe the competition and why you are participating. Explain where you are in the design process and how their assistance will help you. Take things for them to look at, The Tech Challenge poster, your latest device sketch, etc. Respect their time and keep it brief.

3. Can I get together with anyone to create a team, or do teams have to be students from the same school? You can get together with anyone to create a team. The only rule is that every participant must be in Grades 4-12 somewhere — not necessarily in your class or school.

4. I have students with special needs. Can they participate in The Tech Challenge? Yes! If your team has members that need special considerations, please contact us at challenge@thetech.org.

1. My child is participating in the challenge this year. Can I volunteer to be a judge? No. Parents, advisers and teachers of participants are not permitted to serve as judge.

2. I would like to sign up my entire team from work to volunteer for the challenge. Can I just submit a spreadsheet and have you sign them up for me? We cannot enter volunteer information from a spreadsheet or other document. We recommend that your company/organization appoint a lead person to register volunteers.

3. How old do you have to be to volunteer at The Tech Challenge Showcase? You must be at least 18 and a high school graduate to be a judge at the Showcase. All other volunteers must be at least 16 years old.

4. Can my spouse or significant other volunteer with me? Absolutely! Spouses and significant others are encouraged to volunteer.

Don’t see your question here? Email it to volunteertc@thetech.org.