Team of 2 · On-site construction and performance testing
Problem Solving
Your team designs and builds a solution to a problem revealed at the conference.
What you make or do
- Use the supplied challenge materials to design and construct a solution in ninety minutes.
- Have the completed solution tested using the measurements announced for that problem. Some challenges require your team to be present for testing.
This year’s challenge
There is no separate annual theme listed. The problem, construction materials, and scoring measurements are provided at the conference.
How the competition works
Before the event
Prepare the required toolbox and safety eyewear, and practice solving unfamiliar construction problems. The competition solution must be made at the event.
First round
Receive the problem, evaluation criteria, and materials on site. Build within the ninety-minute limit, then submit the solution for testing.
How the event finishes
No separate semifinal round is listed. Judges use the test results to determine the final standings.
Know before you choose: Bring a toolbox that meets the size rules and wear approved safety eyewear. Only issued materials may become part of the solution, except the permitted glue and masking tape.
How your work is scored
The solution is scored using an objective measurement such as time, distance, or strength. The announced problem determines the measurement, and an earlier testing time breaks a tie.
Official files to keep
- Download the full event guide (PDF)
- Download the official rubric or score sheet (PDF)
- Download the general rules (PDF)
- Download the complete guide with the forms appendix (PDF)
Read the guide, current challenge, and updates together. This overview helps you choose; the official documents give the full requirements.
Guide evidence: 265–267. Annual sources checked September 10, 2026. These are national competition rules; your teacher will confirm any regional or state changes.
Interested in this event?
Use the notes sheet to check what this choice would involve.
Start my competition notes