REACH Challenge

REACH Challenge is a STEM design-thinking competition from ITEEA where students develop adaptive technology solutions to help community members with challenges, emphasizing empathy and user-centered design.

The REACH Challenge is a national STEM competition run by the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association (ITEEA) that engages middle school, high school, and college students in creating adaptive and assistive technology projects. It focuses on user-centered design, empathy, and real-world impact by challenging students to design technological solutions that help people in their communities overcome physical or cognitive challenges. The competition also provides teachers with curriculum resources aligned with educational standards.

Competition Details

Judging Criteria

Submissions are judged based on a scoring rubric that evaluates creativity, technical innovation, feasibility, user-centered design, empathy demonstrated, and the real-world impact of the solution. There are two evaluation rounds: the first determines finalists from all submissions, and the second uses a panel of judges selected by ITEEA to evaluate finalists. Winners receive STEM grants, supplies for their programs, and recognition at ITEEA events.