Individual · Cover letter, resume, and interview
Career Prep
You will prepare an application for a future technology career.
What you make or do
- Write a one-page cover letter and a job-specific resume of no more than two pages.
- Combine the documents into a PDF and prepare for a mock job interview.
This year’s challenge
Choose a Digital Technology career in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, IT Support and Services, Network Systems and Cybersecurity, Software Solutions, or Unmanned Vehicle Technology.
How the competition works
Before the event
Research an eligible career and imagine that you have completed the realistic education and training needed for an entry-level position. Submit the application PDF by the national pre-conference deadline.
First round
Judges evaluate your cover letter and resume to select semifinalists.
If you advance
Take part in a ten-minute mock interview. Bring an additional printed copy of your resume for the judges.
Know before you choose: The guide requires your real name but a fictional home address and telephone number. Do not add a headshot, cover page, or table of contents.
How your work is scored
Judges assess how clearly your application fits the job, its organization and writing, and your knowledge and communication in the interview.
Read the full 2027 theme or preparation information
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: 59–64. 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