- All participants must sign an intent to compete form.
- Participants can submit projects in one or more categories but can win in only one category.
- Elementary, middle and high school participants must provide Parent/Coach contact info.
- Competition age categories are Elementary, Middle School, High School, and Young Adult (18-25).
- Participants can compete individually or in teams of up to three members.
- Completed projects may be presented via a physical model, software, video demonstration, or any other relevant medium.
- Minimal assistance from a parent or coach may be provided.
- Project ideas must be developed for this competition or an upcoming school competition. Making significant updates to a school project completed since August 2024 is acceptable.
See the Below Competition Timeline:
October 20th
Deadline to submit intent to compete.
November 3rd
Deadline to submit final projects.
November 9th
Semifinalist Announced
November 14th
Finalist Announced
November 17th and 18th
Winners announced
General Submission Judging Criteria
Below are the criteria that will be used to judge initial submissions. Those scoring the highest in their area and category will move to the competition’s semifinals.
– Originality (30%)– Consider the novelty of the project or how contestant made existing concepts their own.
– Difficulty (15%)– Consider the level of challenge the contestant takes on relative to the age category or concept.
– Adherence to Technicals (20%)– Consider the implementation of subject area technical guidelines.
– Combination of Categories (20%) – Consider how completely STEAM areas are blended into the project.
– Visual Presentation (15%) – Consider the organization of information and details used appropriately.
Semifinals and Finals Judging Criteria
Those making it to the semifinals will be invited to present their works to judges and answer questions. The top two scorers in each category will be declared finalists. Winners are announced at the gala or fair.
– Oral Presentation – Considers how well the contestant(s) can answer questions related to their projects.
– Impact – Considers the thoughtfulness of the project and its significance for current and future societies.
STEAM Competitions
Below are the project-based competitions for each STEAM area. If by chance you miss the deadline to register for project-based competitions, there will be day-of competitions you can participate in as well.
Perform research and prepare a presentation highlighting one of the following areas of science:
Space
- Topics can include but are not limited to planetary science, space exploration, astrophysics, satellite technology, or space colonization.
- Projects could be theoretical models, software simulations, or physical prototypes.
- Participants are encouraged to consider both current challenges in space exploration and future opportunities.
Environment
- Focus areas can include climate change, renewable energy, waste management, conservation, or any other environmental challenge.
- Projects should aim to solve a specific environmental problem or improve current solutions.
- Participants can present innovative technologies, sustainable strategies, or awareness campaigns.
Medical/BioX
- This category encompasses a wide range of topics from medical innovations, biotechnology, genetics, to health solutions.
- Entries might be new medical devices, software for health monitoring, breakthrough research findings, or innovative medical procedures.
- Ethical considerations should be highlighted, especially if human or animal testing is involved.
Submission Requirements:
- Written Report:
- Maximum of 10 pages (including references).
- Must include: Introduction, Objective, Methodology, Results, Conclusion, and Future Work.
- All sources must be cited.
- Model/Demonstration:
- Can be a physical model, software, video demonstration, or any other relevant medium.
- Should be accompanied by a brief user manual or guide.
Video Content
Creating video content in the form of short stories and reels is the most prevalent form of entertaining, teaching, and sharing inspirational messages today. This year’s STEAM Fair theme is “Empowering the Creation of New Adventures.” Use your vision for the future to create video content up to 3 minutes in length and highlight what you think the year 2100 has in store.
Cyber Security Challenge
Participants will navigate a series of challenges related to CyberSecurity.
Raspberry Pi Competition
Using a Raspberry Pi, create a project using one of the following themes:
- Smart Home Innovations:
- Create devices or systems that enhance the living experience.
- Examples: Automated plant watering systems, smart alarms, or energy-saving solutions.
- Entertainment & Gaming:
- Design interactive games or entertainment devices.
- Examples: Retro game emulators, music players, or interactive art displays.
- Assistive Technologies:
- Develop tools or devices to assist individuals with disabilities.
- Examples: Voice-controlled devices, movement assistance tools, or tactile feedback systems.
Submission Requirements:
- Prototype:
- Must be functional, showcasing the Raspberry Pi’s role in the project.
- Should be durable enough for multiple demonstrations.
- Project Report:
- 3-5 pages.
- Sections: Introduction, Inspiration, How It Works, Challenges, and What You Learned.
- Presentation:
- Max 10-minute demonstration of the project to judges.
- Highlight the challenges faced, the solution, and potential real-world applications.
Tips:
- Ensure your Raspberry Pi software is up to date.
- Use external components (like sensors or LEDs) if needed, but the Raspberry Pi should remain central to the project’s function.
- Focus on projects that can have a tangible positive impact or demonstrate a unique use of technology.
- Most importantly, have fun and learn through the process! 🥧🔧🚀
We all have different visions for the future based on what we want and don’t want and how we choose to get there. This year’s theme is “Empowering the Creation of New Adventures.” Assume your life is as wildly successful as you want it to be, and you leave a lasting mark on the world. Create a work of art that shows what you think life will look like in the year 2100. Be sure to include a symbol of your impact in the work. Use either of the following types of art to bring your vision to life.
– Painting
– Sketching
– 3D Art
– Digital Art
Math Challenge
Participants will solve a series of math problems with increasing difficulty to determine the challenge’s champions.
Grace Capacity Cipher Challenge
Participants will navigate a series of puzzles and ciphers to determine the challenge’s champions.