PRE-COLLEGIATE INITIATIVES
BOOK
RULE
2023 - 2024
NSBE's mission is to increase the number of culturally responsible
Black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally,
and positively impact the community
Introduction
2
FIRST®LEGO®LEAGUE CHALLENGE
13
FIRST®LEGO®LEAGUE EXPLORE
8
FUTURE CITY COMPETITION
11
KIDWIND PROJECT
3
MATHCOUNTS®
16
NSBE JR EXPLORER TECHNICAL INNOVATIONS
COMPETITION (TIC)
18
TEN80 EDUCATION
22
TRY-MATH-A-LON (TMAL)
26
VEX IQ CHALLENGE
VEX ROBOTICS COMPETITION
PRE-COLLEGE INITIATIVE (PCI) EVENTS
OF CONTENTS
Photographed by
Felix Manzano
TABLE
44
39
53
FIRST® Tech Challenge
30
INTERNATIONAL STEM LEAGUE©
34
INTROCUCTION TO NSBE
NSBE
The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) was founded in 1975 by six Black engineering students at Purdue
University nicknamed the Chicago 6. The original aspiration was to establish a student organization to help
improve the recruitment and retention of Black engineering students. NSBE is now the largest student-managed
organization in the United States with more than 25,000 members.
NSBE is composed of more than 330 chapters on college and university campuses, 170 professional chapters
nationwide and 290+ NSBE Jr. chapters. These chapters are geographically divided into six regions.
The NSBE mission is to increase the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically,
succeed professionally and positively impact the community. For more information on NSBE, please visit
www.nsbe.org.
In fulfillment of the NSBE objective to “stimulate and develop student interest in the various engineering
disciplines,” various programs and competitions were created for pre-college students.
PCI
The Pre-College Initiative (PCI) Program is the focus of the NSBE effort to promote college, academics,
technology and leadership to pre-college students. Our primary goal is to encourage students in grades 6-12 to
develop interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
The mission of PCI is to lead the world in enhancing pre-college students’ academic, technical and leadership
skills in order to maximize their success in life. The vision is to establish PCI as an incubator for our youth, where
they can be nurtured and guided in their academic careers. NSBE Chapters support PCI through multiple
programs.
NSBE JR.
A vital component of the PCI program is NSBE Jr., which serves as the membership category for pre-college
students and institutions that are officially chartered with NSBE. NSBE Jr. members and chapters are at the core
of PCI, as they are the primary beneficiaries of PCI programs.
NSBE Jr. focuses on enhancing the education received by African-American and other minority pre-college
students, as well as influencing these students to become tomorrow’s corporate executives, entrepreneurs and
leaders. In this spirit, NSBE Jr. is the quintessential recruitment, teaching and preparation device for NSBE.
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The KidWind Challenge is a hands-on design competition that engages students in STEM
through the lens of wind energy. Student teams design and construct small wind turbines that
they test, and then meet with a panel of judges to present their design process and
demonstrate their conceptual knowledge on renewable energy Teams also engage in a variety
of Instant Challenges to gauge their on-the-spot
teamwork and problem-solving skills.
When students participate in a KidWind Challege they will:
Discover the promise and limitations of wind energy technology
Design, build and test a functional creative wind turbine
Compete with their peers in a supportive environment
KIDWIND TURBINE AND GENERATOR RULES
3
Each team that registers must have its own turbine. You will not be allowed to modify
another team’s turbine and use it for testing. Teams cannot share one turbine and simply
change blades or other parts for each team.
There are no budgetary restrictions for your turbine design, but it is important to keep in mind
that part of the judging process is the economical use of resources. Please use materials
responsibly.
You may only use 1 generator per turbine. You have three options for choosing what this
generator will be:
The turbine must fit inside the wind tunnel and operate within its 48” x 48” internal dimensions.
It is HIGHLY recommended that you design your turbine to fit within these dimensions with
plenty of room. Sand bags or other weights will be available to hold the turbine in place, but we
have found that almost all turbines shake and move a little in the tunnel, so it is a good idea to
have extra space!
You can use the KidWind Wind Turbine Generator (KW-GEN)
You can construct your own generator using a kit, online plans, or your own ingenuity.
You can select a different AC or DC generator that better matches how much power your
turbine can generate.
If you construct your own generator or use an advanced generators you will be placed in the
OPEN DIVISION for energy production at all official KidWind Challenges. If you use a KidWind
Generator, you will be placed in the KIDWIND GEN DIVISION. Judges will inspect your
generator to determine in which division your team will participate. Please make sure that
your generator is visible.
Power must be generated solely by wind, using the wind tunnel.
Your turbine can be built on either a vertical or horizontal axis.
Your turbine may use a gearbox, pulley system, or similar mechanism to increase power
output. You may use pre-manufactured gearboxes and other parts, but keep in mind that
innovation is a critical judging criteria, and parts that you make on your own will earn you
more points.
You cannot use pre-manufactured wind turbine blades or airfoils/sheets.
Your wind turbine must be free-standing. A tower/stand will not be provided.
The use of 3D printed parts and components is allowed. While you do not have to use files
you created yourself, you should bring documentation about the CAD files to the Challenge
and be prepared to discuss the design and the 3D printing process. Judges will want to
make sure you understand this technology if you decide to use it.
Metal, plexiglass, and similar blade materials are highly discouraged because they are
potentially dangerous. On occasion, we have allowed these types of blades to be used, but
only after local judges determined that there was an extremely low risk of failure due to
assembly. Send us photos if you are unsure at [email protected]. Please be aware that
turbines will be disqualified if they are deemed unsafe by the local judges.
While the use of shrouds to channel the wind is permitted, the turbine and the
shroud must fit COMPLETELY inside the wind tunnel to qualify. If any part of the
shroud is outside of the wind tunnel during the test, the turbine will be
disqualified. Any shroud that is used must be physically connected to your wind
turbine (tower, nacelle, or other structure). It MUST move as you move the turbine
and should be independent of your turbine.
Students have used wheels from bicycles as part of their turbines. These are allowed since
bike wheels are designed to spin at high RPM. Please be aware that if the wheel assemblies
appear unsafe, local judges will disqualify these turbines.
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JUDGING AND AWARDS
Your team’s turbine will be assessed by four categories, each weighted differently as shown in
the diagram below. So brush up on your turbine knowledge, find the best materials and parts
you can get your hands on and have some fun along the way.
TURBINE JUDGING RUBRIC
Turbine Design (30%)
Innovation (10%)
Energy Produced in Tunnel (35%)
Report/Engineer's Notebook/Documentation (35%)
Blades (10%)
Drivetrain (10%)
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ENERGY PRODUCED
The total energy output of your turbine over the 30-50 second trial period will be collected using
data-logging software. Each team’s energy output will be ranked relative to that of other
competitors. Each team will receive points corresponding to its rank. In all cases, you want to
generate as much energy as possible to get a high score.
TURBINE DESIGN
Judges will inspect the parts of your wind turbine closely. They will also conduct a brief
interview with your entire team to understand why you chose the parts you did and why you
think they work. A panel of judges will examine your wind turbine design before testing it in the
wind tunnel. You must be prepared to discuss/ defend the choices you incorporated into the
design. The design criteria you will be judged on include:
Craftsmanship of your design, creativity and environmental decisions (e.g., Did you use
recyclable materials? Can you take your turbine apart after the competition and reuse the
parts?).
The choices and mechanisms by which you maximized power output.
10% Blades
The judges will be very interested in how you developed and constructed specific parts of
your turbine. Make sure you understand the decisions you made when constructed the
following components.
10% Drivetrain
10% Innovation
DOCUMENTATION OF DESIGN
All students must complete a Project Profile Form. This sheet should be presented to your
judges when you enter the judging room.
In addition to this sheet, teams may also share additional documentation with the judges that
showcases, with more detail, their design process and knowledge of wind energy science. It is
up to each team to determine how they want to document this part of their project. In the past
we have seen short reports, engineer’s notebooks, videos (maximum of 4 minutes),
PowerPoints, and science fair poster boards
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APPLICATION PROCEDURE
KidWind registration is completed via an online application through Jotform. The 4 - 8 grade
application can be found here and 9 - 12 grade application can be found here. Each team
interested in participating for the 2023 - 2024 program year must submit an application for the
program and meet all the team requirements. Completing all of the information in the
application is vital.
KIDWIND REGISTRATION INFORMATION
TEAM REQUIREMENTS
Every KidWind team must:
Consist of a combination of students in grades 4 - 8 OR 9 - 12. These are separate age
divisions, you can not create a team that includes students in grades 4 - 12 combined.
Attend the 50th Annual Convention in Atlanta, GA. March 20 - March 24, 2024
Consist of a minimum of two (2) and up to a maximum of four (4) participants.
Complete all application and registration requests before the deadlines.
Chapter advisor and team coaches must provide a satisfactory NSBE background check
with Info Cubic
Consist of active NSBE Jr. members.
KidWind NEW Team Resources, Registration
& Application
Plan for KidWind
Rules and Judging Rubric for Kidwind
Gear for KidWind (you do not have to
purchase kits, its higly suggested you
recycle materials around you
classroom/home!
Building guidelines & resources for
KidWind
Take a look and sign-up for upcoming
workshops here
For NEW teams: Visit the below KidWind links
to learn more about the competition and how
to create a team.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Review the above resources and register
your team on KidWind by Mon,
December 4, 2023
ALL KidWind Teams NSBE Registration
4 - 8 grade application here
9 - 12 grade application here
ALL teams are required to submit a
registration application for NSBE's
KidWind 2023 - 2024 competition at
Annual Convention.
Registration deadline is Monday, January
8, 2024 Participation confirmation will be
sent out by Monday, January 29, 2024.
National Competition
Held at NSBE's Annual Convention
March 20 - March 24, 2024 in Atlanta, GA
CRITICAL 2023 - 2024 KIDWIND DATES
For quick reference, the following target dates are listed to ensure your participation in NSBE
KidWind. Please read responsibilities, events, and target timeline carefully. ALL links and
resources are listed below and should be followed in the suggested order. For further
information on the upcoming NSBE conferences, please visit nsbe.org
TEAM RESPONSIBILITY
AND EVENTS
TARGET TIME FRAME
(NO LATER THAN)
7
Pencils and paper will be provided for students; however, students may bring their own pencils,
pens and erasers if they wish. They may not use their own scratch paper or graph paper.
Calculators are permitted in the Team Round. Students may use any calculator (including
programmable and graphing calculators) that does not contain a QWERTY (typewriter-like)
keypad. Calculators that have the ability to enter letters of the alphabet but do not have a
keypad in a standard typewriter arrangement are acceptable. Smart phones, laptops, iPads®,
iPods®, personal digital assistants (PDAs) and any other “smart” devices are not considered to
be calculators and may not be used during competitions. Students may not use calculators to
exchange information with another person or device during the competition. Coaches are
responsible for ensuring that their students use acceptable calculators, and students are
responsible for providing their own calculators (and batteries).
Should there be a rule violation or suspicion of irregularities, the MATHCOUNTS® competition
official has the obligation and authority to exercise his or her judgment regarding the situation
and take appropriate action, which might include disqualification of the suspected student(s)
from the competition.
Use of notes and other aids (including graph paper, rulers, compasses, protractors, reference
tables, and dictionaries) is not permitted.
Communication with coaches is prohibited during rounds but is permitted during breaks.
All communication between guests and students is prohibited during competition rounds.
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MATHCOUNTS® Written Team Competition is designed to be completed in 20 minutes at
Annual Convention.
The Team Round consists of 10 problems that team members work to solve together. Team
member interaction is permitted and encouraged. Calculator use is permitted.
The MATHCOUNTS Final Countdown Round is designed for teams to compete head-to-head. A
problem is presented to two teams at a time. The question will be read aloud, as well as
presented on a screen. Students can use a pencil and scratch paper and discuss with their
teammates. Teams have 45 seconds to determine the answer and hit a buzzer when they are
ready to answer. The other team can continue to work while their opponent is answering. The
team that answers the most questions out of three correct moves on to the next round.
Calculators are not permitted.
MATCHCOUNTS COMPETITION COMPONENTS
COMPETITION RULES
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Each Team Round question is worth 2 points. There are 10 questions in the Team Round, so the
maximum possible team score is 10(2) = 20.
Ties will be broken as necessary to determine team prizes. The team with the higher Team
Round score receives the higher rank. If a tie remains after this comparison, specific questions
from the Team Round will be compared. Note: These are very general guidelines. Competition
officials receive more detailed procedures.
In general, questions in the Team Round increase in difficulty so that the most difficult
questions occur near the end of the round. In a comparison of questions to break ties, generally
those who correctly answer the more difficult questions receive the higher rank.
COMPETITION RULES
TEAM REGISTRATION:
Attend the 50th Annual Convention in Atlanta, GA. March 20 - March 24, 2024
Each team must be a combination of exactly 4 students in grades 6 - 8.
Complete all application and registration requests before the deadlines.
Chapter advisor and team coaches must provide a satisfactory NSBE background check
with Info Cubic
Consist of active NSBE Jr. members.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
MATHCOUNTS® registration is completed via an online application through Jotform. The
application can be found here. Each team interested in participating for the 2023–2024 program
year must submit an application for the program and meet all of the team requirements.
Completing all of the information in the application is vital.
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MATHCOUNTS Team Registration and
Resources
Confirmation of team participation will be
sent by Monday, Feb 5, 2024.
Register your team(s) using our jotform here.
Submission deadline is Friday, January 19,
2024..
Download the MATHCOUNTS school
handbook here for access to practice
problems!
National Competition
Held at NSBE's Annual Convention
March 20 - March 24, 2024 in Atlanta, GA
CRITICAL 2023 - 2024 MATHCOUNTS DATES
For quick reference, the following target dates are listed to ensure your participation in
MATCHCOUNTS. For further information on the upcoming NSBE Convention, please visit
convention.nsbe.org
TEAM RESPONSIBILITY
AND EVENTS
TARGET TIME FRAME
(NO LATER THAN)
The VEX IQ Challenge provides elementary and middle school students (ages 8-14) with
exciting, open-ended robotics, engineering and research project challenges that enhance their
science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills through hands-on, student-
centered learning.
VEX IQ Challenge teams solve an annual game challenge by designing, building and
programming a robot for the challenge. Students work in teams to score points in teamwork
matches and in Robot Skills Challenge. The VEX IQ Challenge theme for the 2023-2024 season is
Full Volume.
VEX IQ CHALLENGE COMPETITION COMPONENTS:
The VEX IQ Full Volume game manual can be found here
TEAM REGISTRATION:
Teams must consist of at least two (2) students and no more than ten (10).
Attend the 50th Annual Convention in Atlanta, GA. March 20 - March 24, 2024
Each team must be a combination of students in grades 3 -8.
Complete all application and registration requests before the deadlines.
Chapter advisor and team coaches must provide a satisfactory NSBE background check
with Info Cubic
Consist of active NSBE Jr. members.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Each team must follow the below application procedure to be eligible to compete:
Submit registration to compete at NSBE's 50th Annual Convention by December 29, 2023 here.
Sign-up and/or register your team for the 2023 - 2024 season on robotevent.com. You will
select "NSBE" as your affiliation.
Meet all critical 2023 - 2024 dates listed below.
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VEX IQ Team Registration & Applications
Confirmation of participation will be sent
out by Friday, Jan 19, 2024.
Register your team on robotevents.com and
submit application to compete at NSBE's 50th
Annual Convention here by Friday, December
29th, 2023.
National Competition
Held at NSBE's Annual Convention
March 20 - March 24, 2024 in Atlanta, GA
CRITICAL 2023 - 2024 VEX IQ DATES
For quick reference, the following target dates are listed to ensure your participation in NSBE
KidWind. Please read responsibilities, events, and target timeline carefully. ALL links and
resources are listed below and should be followed in the suggested order. For further
information on the upcoming NSBE conferences, please visit nsbe.org
TEAM RESPONSIBILITY
AND EVENTS
TARGET TIME FRAME
(NO LATER THAN)
12
The Robotics Education & Competition (REC) Foundation and NSBE developed a partnership to
establish VEX Robotics Competition teams through NSBE’s Pre-College Initiative (PCI). Each
year, an exciting engineering challenge is presented in the form of a game. Students, with
guidance from their teachers and mentors, build innovative robots and compete year-round in a
variety of matches. In addition to learning valuable engineering skills, students gain life skills
such as teamwork, perseverance, communication, collaboration, project management and
critical thinking.
The VEX Robotics Competition prepares students to become future innovators with 95% of
participants reporting an increased interest in STEM subject areas and pursuing STEM-related
careers. The challenge for the 2023 – 2024 season is called Over Under. The object of the game is
to attain a higher score than the opposing Alliance by Scoring Triballs in Goals, and by Elevating
at the end of the Match.
VEX ROBOTICS COMPETITION COMPONENTS:
The VEX IQ Full Volume game manual can be found here
TEAM REGISTRATION:
Teams must consist of at least two (2) students and no more than ten (10).
Attend the 50th Annual Convention in Atlanta, GA. March 20 - March 24, 2024
Each team must be a combination of students in grades 9 -12.
Complete all application and registration requests before the deadlines.
Chapter advisor and team coaches must provide a satisfactory NSBE background check
with Info Cubic
Consist of active NSBE Jr. members.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Each team must follow the below application procedure to be eligible to compete:
Submit registration to compete at NSBE's 50th Annual Convention by December 29. 2023 here.
Sign-up and/or register your team for the 2023 - 2024 season on robotevent.com. You will
select "NSBE" as your affiliation.
Meet all critical 2023 - 2024 dates listed below.
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VEX Robotics Team Registration &
Applications
Confirmation of participation will be sent
out by Friday, Jan 19, 2024.
Register your team on robotevents.com and
submit application to compete at NSBE's 50th
Annual Convention here by Friday, December
29th, 2023..
National Competition
Held at NSBE's Annual Convention
March 20 - March 24, 2024 in Atlanta, GA
CRITICAL 2023 - 2024 VEX ROBOTICS DATES
For quick reference, the following target dates are listed to ensure your participation in NSBE
KidWind. Please read responsibilities, events, and target timeline carefully. ALL links and
resources are listed below and should be followed in the suggested order. For further
information on the upcoming NSBE conferences, please visit nsbe.org
TEAM RESPONSIBILITY
AND EVENTS
TARGET TIME FRAME
(NO LATER THAN)
14
Future City Competition is national competition that focuses on improving student’s math,
engineering and science skills. The program is open to students in the 6th, 7th and 8th grades
who attend a public, private or home school. The aim of Future City is to provide an exciting
educational engineering program for students. It combines a stimulating engineering challenge
with an inquiry-based application to present their vision of a city of the future.
Middle-school students will be tasked to imagine, design and build cities of the future. After
designing a virtual city (using SimCity), researching, designing and writing up their solution to
city-wide issue and building a scale model of their city, teams will present their vision to a panel
of judges. NSBE’s Future City Competition will take place at the Annual Convention. This year’s
theme: Electrify Your Future. Design a 100% electrically powered city with energy generated
from sources that keep their citizens and the environment healthy and safe.
Important: At Annual Convention, NSBE Jr Future City teams will be judged on their city essay,
city presentation, city questions and answers, and their project plan. Bringing a physical model
is not required.
Click here to learn more about the deliverables
TEAM REGISTRATION:
Teams can have a minimum of four students and a maximum of 30
Attend the 50th Annual Convention in Atlanta, GA. March 20 - March 24, 2024
Each team must be a combination of students in grades 6 – 8
Complete all application and registration requests before the deadlines.
Chapter advisor and team coaches must provide a satisfactory NSBE background check
with Info Cubic
Teams must be comprised of active NSBE Jr. members
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Each team must follow the below application procedure to be eligible to compete:
Submit registration to compete at NSBE's 50th Annual Convention by December 29, 2023 here.
Sign-up and/or register your team for the 2023 - 2024 season on futurecity.org.
Meet all critical 2023 - 2024 dates listed below.
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Future City Team Registration & Applications
Confirmation of participation will be sent
by Friday, Jan 19, 2024.
Register your team on futurecity.org and
submit application to compete at NSBE's 50th
Annual Convention here by Friday, December
29th, 2023.
National Competition
Held at NSBE's Annual Convention
March 20 - March 24, 2024 in Atlanta, GA
CRITICAL 2023 - 2024 FUTURE CITY DATES
For quick reference, the following target dates are listed to ensure your participation in NSBE
KidWind. Please read responsibilities, events, and target timeline carefully. ALL links and
resources are listed below and should be followed in the suggested order. For further
information on the upcoming NSBE conferences, please visit nsbe.org
TEAM RESPONSIBILITY
AND EVENTS
TARGET TIME FRAME
(NO LATER THAN)
17
Ten80 Education™ produces standards-based STEM curricula and competitions, as well as a
web-based Points Race that gamifies hands-on learning. Its three signature programs are the
Ten80 Racing Challenge, Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Challenge, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
(UAV) Challenge. (The Ten80-NSBE STEM League does not currently include the UAV
Challenge.)
Through class, club, and camp curriculum, complete with materials, training, and support,
Ten80 invites middle and high school students to practice the art of being STEM professionals.
Youth in schools and out-of-school settings, supported by a community of mentors and
educators, collaborate and compete in ways that mirror engineers, technicians, green
transportation designers, business executives, marketing specialists, and professional
motorsports teams. To demonstrate their skills, teams across the U.S. and China gather to
compete at local, regional, and national Face-to-Face events each year, and/or submit their
work for the online Points Race.
In addition to the curriculum and competitions, Ten80 draws on decades of experience with
students and educators to produce custom, event-based STEM experiences with industry
association partners, designed to help launch youth into career pathways while promoting
meaningful community engagement. Notable custom event sponsors have included the U.S.
Army, SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association), NASCAR, SME (formerly Society of
Manufacturing Engineers), NSBE (National Society of Black Engineers), America Makes,
Lightning eMotors, and the Denver Broncos.
TEN80-NSBE STEM LEAGUE
Teams can also earn points and gain feedback from remote STEM mentors via the web-
based STEM Challenge Points Race.
NSBE Ten80 teams, and Points Race teams who have practiced with Ten80 curriculum and
materials, are also invited to periodic regional competitions and an open Nationals hosted
in late spring of each year in different locations throughout the U.S.
Ten80 Racing Challenge teams and Ten80 Autonomous Vehicle Challenge teams prepare to
compete in the Face-to-Face competition hosted each spring at the NSBE Annual
Convention.
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There are multiple ways that teams can compete each season.
NSBE has committed to bringing members quality programming. A significant part of our
commitment is the financial investment. Registering for NSBE’s Ten80 program means you
commit to completing the program in its entirety and will fully participate in the culminating
activities at Annual Convention
TEN80 EDUCATION™
TEN80-NSBE STEM CHALLENGE TEAM REGISTRATION:
Teams must be comprised of active NSBE Jr. members.
Each team enters one or more of the following competition series: Racing Challenge,
Autonomous Vehicle Challenge, and/or online Points Race.
Each team is entered into the Middle or High School series. If any single individual on a team
is in grades 9-12, the team must be High School.
Complete all application and registration requests before the deadlines.
Chapter advisor and team coaches must provide a satisfactory NSBE background check
with Info Cubic
Attendance at the 50th Annual Convention in Atlanta, GA is required.
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TEN80-NSBE STEM LEAGUE COMPETITION
COMPONENTS
TEN80 RACING CHALLENGE
Students own a motorsports team and their ultimate goal is to engineer performance. This
includes personal performance, team performance and of course, race performance. The base
technology for Racing Challenge teams is a 1/10th scale electric radio-controlled (RC) car that
can be setup in over 4 million ways before re-engineering a single part. Curriculum can be
implemented in school and in out-of-school settings using 6-10 week modules, a year-long
program, or as core curriculum classwork.
TEN80 AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE CHALLENGE
The Ten80 Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Challenge introduces students to coding through physical
computing, with the promise of an exciting culminating competition. The AV Challenge starts
with the electromechanical assembly of a 1/16th scale car. Through installation and
experimentation with a series of sensors and coding, the car executes tasks as a self-driving
vehicle resembling the fully autonomous cars that are navigating today’s roads and highways.
To complete the Ten80 STEM Challenges as a STEM Innovation experience, students are invited
to practice their Enterprise skills through teamwork and collaboration. The final goal is not only
to compete with the car, but to showcase their business that centers on that vehicle, complete
with branding and marketing projects such as elevator pitches and logo design.
Ten 80-NSBE STEM League teams can compete in two ways: (1) Face-to-Face at Regional
Competitions, NSBE Finals and Ten80 Nationals; and (2) online Points Race in which teams
upload submissions to earn points and team coaches receive additional support through the
feedback on team investigations and projects.
Data-Driven Design (encompasses DDD Projects, as well as category formerly known as
MODS)
Enterprise
Autonomous vehicle OR Head-to-Head Racing
Project Planning
Marketing & Public Relations
Pitch and Presentations
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Teams can compete in some or all of the following categories:
Graphic Design
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
NSBE teams choose CLASS or CLUB implementation and select the number of kits required for
their optimal kit: students ratio. RETURNING teams who already have kits in working order only
need to register for 2023-24 Face-to-Face competition, or Face-to-Face and Points Race
competition. Registration provides renewed access to the curriculum. No additional kit is
required.
CLASS implementation is ideal for chapters intending to implement the curriculum as a for-
credit course. All options include registration for the 1st year into the Face-to-Face competition
at the Annual Convention. There is an additional charge to enter the Points Race, the spring
Ten80 Nationals, and for enhanced support.
Ten80 Racing Challenge and Autonomous Vehicle Challenge registration is completed via an
online application through Jotform. The application for middle school can be found here and
application for high school can be found here. To fully complete registration, each team must
also complete registration at www.Ten80Education.com. Each team interested in participating
for the 2023 - 2024 program year must submit both applications for the program and meet all of
the team requirements. Completing all of the information in the application is vital.
Register with NSBE and Ten80 for Ten80
NSBE STEM at Annual Convention
Middle School team application here
High School team application here
Confirmation of participation will be sent
by Friday, Jan 19, 2024.
Register your Ten80 team on
www.ten80education.com and submit
application to compete at NSBE's 50th Annual
Convention here by Friday, December 29th,
2023.
Acquire access to Ten80 Education™
Curriculum (REQUIRED)
September 1, 2023 through January 28,
2024 at the following link: Ten80
Curriculum
2023-24 Season Orientation and Training
Webinars with Ten80
September, October, November, January-
Dates TBA. Refer to the calendar at the
following link: Ten80 Calendar
Ten80 Points Race
Opens October 2023 at the following link:
Ten80 Points Race
NSBE FRC Ten80 Workshops
Dates and Location TBD
NSBE-Ten80 Nationals at 50th Annual NSBE
Convention (REQUIRED- Register with NSBE
for Convention AND Register with Ten80 for
the competition)
Please register for Annual Convention no
later than March 1, 2024 if you plan on
competing in the Ten80 Competition on
Friday, March 22, 2024 in Atlanta, GA.
You can register for Convention here:
convention.nsbe.org
CRITICAL 2023 - 2024 TEN80 NSBE STEM LEAGUE DATES
For quick reference, the following target dates are listed to ensure your participation in the
Ten80 NSBE STEM League. Please read responsibilities, events, and target timeline carefully.
ALL links and resources are listed below and should be followed in the suggested order. For
further information on the upcoming NSBE conferences, please visit convention.nsbe.org
TEAM RESPONSIBILITY
AND EVENTS
TARGET TIME FRAME
(NO LATER THAN)
21
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FIRST® LEGO® LEAGUE EXPLORE
NSBE FIRST® LEGO® LEAGUE EXPLORE IS NOT AN OFFICAL
COMPETITION FOR FIRST WORLD FESTIVAL QUALIFICATION.
FIRST® LEGO® LEAGUE EXPLORE OVERVIEW
FIRST LEGO League Explore is one of three divisions by age group of the FIRST® LEGO® League
program and serves children ages 6-10. This program inspires young people to experiment and
grow their confidence, critical thinking, and design skills through hands-on learning. FIRST
LEGO League was created through an alliance between FIRST® and LEGO® Education.
Guided by adult coaches, teams (up to six members, grades K – 4) explore a real-world scientific
problem such as food safety, recycling, energy, etc. Then, they create a Team poster that
illustrates their journey of discovery and introduces their team. They also construct a motorized
model of what they learned using LEGO® elements. In the process, teams learn about
teamwork, the wonders of science and technology and the FIRST® LEGO® League Explore Core
Values, which include respect, sharing and critical thinking. At the close of each season, teams
come together at NSBE’s Annual Convention to show off their accomplishments, share ideas,
celebrate and have fun! Every year, FIRST® LEGO® League Explore works with experts in the
field to create a Challenge that relates to an important real world issue. Past challenges have
been based on topics such as nanotechnology, climate, quality of life for the handicapped
population and transportation.
The end result of the design process is a challenge with two defined parts - the Team poster and
the Model. The culmination of the hard work for our teams is the participation in the showcase
event at NSBE’s Annual Convention. Volunteer reviewers at the event interview the teams to
learn about their LEGO® Model and Team poster. All the teams are celebrated and leave with an
award. This year’s theme is MASTERPIECE
During the 2023-2024 FIRST season, FIRST® IN SHOWSM presented by Qualcomm, the future is
yours to create! The FIRST LEGO League challenge is called MASTERPIECES. Children will learn
about the role science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) plays in the arts and will
imagine and innovate new ways to create and communicate art across the globe. NSBE Jr.
FIRST® LEGO® League Explore competition teams will be invited to compete and participate in
all FIRST LEGO League events and activities held locally. It is through the local events by which a
team would be eligible to advance to the World Festival. NSBE Jr FIRST LEGO League teams will
also be invited to attend and participate at Annual Convention.
With your team registration, you’ll receive access to digital resources through the FIRST®
Thinkscape Portal, including the MASTERPIECE Team Meeting Guide and a static and
interactive version of the Engineering Notebook. Click here for access instructions.
SM
23
FIRST® LEGO® LEAGUE EXPLORE TEAMS GET TO:
Discover real-world math and science
Design and build a challenge-related model with a moving part using LEGO® elements
Explore challenges facing today’s scientists
Develop teamwork skills
Choose to participate in festivals and showcases
Create a Team Poster and practice presentation skills
Engage in team activities guided by the FIRST® Core Values
CORE VALUES
FIRST® LEGO® League expresses its philosophies of Gracious Professionalism and Coopertition
8 through its Core Values. We ask that everyone associated with every team understand and
honor these Core Values:
Innovation: We use creativity and persistence to solve our problems.
Impact: We apply what we learn to improve our world.
Discovery: We explore new skills and ideas.
Teamwork: We are stronger when we work together
Fun: We enjoy and celebrate what we do!
Inclusion: We respect each other and embrace our differences
TEAM POSTER
The Team Poster requires teams to illustrate their research and team journey. It provides an
opportunity for them to share what they studied, what they learned and to show information
about the team and each team member.
Use words, drawings, photos and small objects to tell about what they have learned
during their Challenge research.
Show where they hunted for answers and describe the people they spoke with on their
journey.
Create a Team Poster using a flat poster board or tri-fold presentation board.
Tell observers about the team itself.
Describe their Model and simple machine.
24
MODEL
The Model gets teams moving! Teams build a representation of what they are researching,
based off the challenge and incorporate simple machines and movement into their creation.
(Explore Model Building Instructions: Book 1 | Book 2)
Design a Model made of LEGO® parts. Typically, a team of six will use 400 to 1,000 LEGO®
parts during the season.
Must have at least one motorized piece on the Model.
Create a Model that fits within a 15” x 15” footprint.
Create a simple machine using LEGO® ramps, levers, pulleys, gears, wheels and axles,
screws, or wedges and incorporates this into their Model.
APPLICATON PROCEDURE
NSBE FIRST® LEGO® League registration is completed via an online application through
Jotform. The application can be found here. To fully complete registration, each team must also
complete registration at the FLL Website. Each team interested in participating for the program
year must submit an application for the program and meet all of the team requirements.
Completing all of the information in the application is vital.
IMPORTANT UPDATE: NSBE IS NO LONGER A FLL REGION. EACH TEAM MUST SELECT A
LOCAL REGION AND COMPETE WITHIN THAT GROUP TO HOPEFULLY QUALIFY FOR FIRST's
WORLD FESTIVAL. NSBE'S ANNUAL CONVENTION IS NO LONGER A QUALIFIER!
NSBE FIRST® LEGO® LEAGUE EXPLORE
REGISTRATION TEAM REQUIREMENTS
Every NSBE FIRST® LEGO® League Jr. team must:
Submit an application to participate at NSBE's Annual Convention here
Consist of a minimum of two (2) and up to a maximum of six (6) ACTIVE NSBE Jr members.
Complete registration on the FLL website to receive their team number.
Consist of a combination of students in kindergarten through 4th grade
Attend the 50th Annual Convention in Atlanta, GA
Assign a chapter advisor and team coach to complete the FIRST® Youth Protection
Program (Each team needs two registered coaches through FIRST® )
Chapter advisor and team coaches must provide a satisfactory NSBE background check
with Info Cubic.
IMPORTANT NOTE: : A NSBE FIRST® LEGO® League coach can prepare more than one NSBE
FIRST® LEGO® League team for the Annual Convention showcase.
25
Register with FIRST LEGO LEAGUE and NSBE
to participate at NSBE's Annual Convention
Showcase
Register your team on the FLL website
Register your team/chapter to attend
Annual Convention at convention.nsbe.org
Register your team to participate at NSBE
First Lego League showcase at Annual
Convention no later than Friday,
December 29, 2023 here
NSBE FIRST LEGO LEAGUE SHOWCASE
Held at NSBE's 50th Annual Convention
from March 20 - March 24, 2024 in
Atlanta, GA.
You can register for Convention and
receive updates/news here:
convention.nsbe.org
CRITICAL 2023 - 2024 FLL EXPLORE DATES
For quick reference, the following target dates are listed to ensure your participation in the
NSBE FIRST LEGO LEAGUE. Please read responsibilities, events, and target timeline carefully.
ALL links and resources are listed below and should be followed in the suggested order. For
further information on the upcoming NSBE conferences, please visit convention.nsbe.org
TEAM RESPONSIBILITY
AND EVENTS
TARGET TIME FRAME
(NO LATER THAN)
24
The FIRST® LEGO® League Challenge competition will only be held at national convention.
Teams will build and program robots to compete in this year’s MASTERPIECE themed challenge.
Each year FIRST® LEGO® League releases a challenge, which is based on a real-world scientific
topic. Each challenge has three parts: the Robot Game, the Project and the Core Values. Teams
of up to 10 students, with at least one adult coach, participate in the challenge by programming
an autonomous robot to score points on a themed playing field (Robot Game), developing a
solution to a problem they have identified (Project), all guided by the FIRST® LEGO® League
Core Values. The culmination of the hard work for our teams is the participation in the
competition at NSBE’s Annual Convention.
In the 2023-2024 MASTERPIECES challenge, FIRST® LEGO® League students will imagine and
innovate new ways to create and communicate art across the globe. NSBE Jr. FIRST® LEGO®
League Challenge competition teams will be invited to compete and participate in all FIRST
LEGO League events and activities held locally. It is through the local events by which a team
would be eligible to advance to the World Festival. NSBE Jr FIRST LEGO League teams will also
be invited to attend and participate at Annual Convention.
26
FIRST® LEGO® LEAGUE CHALLENGE
NSBE FIRST® LEGO® LEAGUE CHALLENGE IS NOT AN OFFICAL
COMPETITION FOR FIRST WORLD FESTIVAL QUALIFICATION.
FIRST® LEGO® LEAGUE CHALLENGE OVERVIEW
FIRST® LEGO® LEAGUE COMPETITION COMPONENTS
Anyone who works with the team (coaches, mentors, topic experts, parents, etc.) may
teach team members new skills, handle logistics for the team, ask questions to get team
members thinking and remind them of the FIRST® LEGO® League rules. Adults play an
important role in coaching and supporting their team, but the team’s robot and project
should be the work of team members.
Team members must make all decisions and do all the work on the Robot Game and
Project. This includes deciding on strategy, building, programming, researching, choosing
a problem and innovative solution and presenting at a tournament.
GENERAL
27
TEAM MEMBERS
Students may be members of only one (1) FIRST® LEGO® League team per season.
Allowed ages in U.S., Canada and Mexico: 9 – 14 years.
A team must have a minimum of two (2) and a maximum of ten (10) students.
No team member may be outside the maximum allowed age in your region prior to
January 1 of the year the challenge is released
ROBOT GAME
Each team’s robot must be built in accordance with all allowable parts, software and other
rules.
PROJECT
Teams must demonstrate completion of all three (3) steps of the project (identify a
problem, develop an innovative solution and share with others) as part of their
presentation and fulfill any other requirements as defined in the annual project
document.
CORE VALUES
FIRST® LEGO® League expresses its philosophies of Gracious Professionalism and Coopertition
8 through its Core Values. We ask that everyone associated with every team understand and
honor these Core Values:
Innovation: We use creativity and persistence to solve our problems.
Impact: We apply what we learn to improve our world.
Discovery: We explore new skills and ideas.
Teamwork: We are stronger when we work together
Fun: We enjoy and celebrate what we do!
Inclusion: We respect each other and embrace our differences
JUDGING AND AWARDS
CORE VALUES
Official tournaments, including the event at NSBE’s Annual Convention, must follow the judging
and awards structure determined by FIRST® LEGO® League. Although the audience mostly
sees teams playing the Robot Game at tournaments, teams are also being judged on:
Project
Robot Design
Core Values
Robot Game Rules can be found here, judging rubrics can be found here, and awards
descriptions can be found here
28
APPLICATON PROCEDURE
NSBE FIRST® LEGO® League registration is completed via an online application through
Jotform. The application can be found here. To fully complete registration, each team must also
complete registration at the FLL Website. Each team interested in participating for the program
year must submit an application for the program and meet all of the team requirements.
Completing all of the information in the application is vital.
IMPORTANT UPDATE: NSBE IS NO LONGER A FLL REGION. EACH TEAM MUST SELECT A
LOCAL REGION AND COMPETE WITHIN THAT GROUP TO HOPEFULLY QUALIFY FOR FIRST's
WORLD FESTIVAL. NSBE'S ANNUAL CONVENTION IS NO LONGER A QUALIFIER!
NSBE FIRST® LEGO® LEAGUE CHALLENGE
REGISTRATION TEAM REQUIREMENTS
Every NSBE FIRST® LEGO® LEAGUE team must:
Submit an application to participate at NSBE's Annual Convention here
Consist of a minimum of two (2) and up to a maximum of ten (10) ACTIVE NSBE Jr members.
Complete registration on the FLL website to receive their team number.
Consist of a combination of students in 4 - 8 grade.
Attend the 50th Annual Convention in Atlanta, GA
Assign a chapter advisor and team coach to complete the FIRST® Youth Protection
Program (Each team needs two registered coaches through FIRST® )
Chapter advisor and team coaches must provide a satisfactory NSBE background check
with Info Cubic.
IMPORTANT NOTE: : A NSBE FIRST® LEGO® League coach can prepare more than one NSBE
FIRST® LEGO® League team for the Annual Convention showcase.
Register with FIRST LEGO LEAGUE and NSBE
to participate at NSBE's Annual Convention
Showcase
Register your team on the FLL website
Register your team/chapter to attend
Annual Convention at convention.nsbe.org
Register your team to participate at NSBE
First Lego League showcase at Annual
Convention no later than Friday,
December 29, 2023 here
NSBE FIRST LEGO LEAGUE SHOWCASE
Held at NSBE's 50th Annual Convention
from March 20 - March 24, 2024 in
Atlanta, GA.
You can register for Convention and
receive updates/news here:
convention.nsbe.org
CRITICAL 2023 - 2024 FLL CHALLENGE DATES
For quick reference, the following target dates are listed to ensure your participation in the
NSBE FIRST LEGO LEAGUE. Please read responsibilities, events, and target timeline carefully.
ALL links and resources are listed below and should be followed in the suggested order. For
further information on the upcoming NSBE conferences, please visit convention.nsbe.org
TEAM RESPONSIBILITY
AND EVENTS
TARGET TIME FRAME
(NO LATER THAN)
29
2824
FIRST® Tech Challenge (ages 12-18) encourages teams to design, build, program and engage in
thrilling robotics competitions. Guided by adult coaches and mentors, students develop STEM
skills and practice engineering principles, while realizing the value of innovation and teamwork.
The reusable robot kit can be coded using a variety of programming languages. With Gracious
Professionalism®, students are encouraged to create team identities and be an ambassador for
FIRST and STEM in their communities.
In the CENTERSTAGE℠ presented by Raytheon Technologies challenge, debuting September 9,
2023, FIRST Tech Challenge teams will raise the curtain on the power of design, creativity, and
precision to create all new experiences.
NSBE Jr FIRST Tech Challenge teams will be invited to compete and participate in all FIRST Tech
Challenge events held locally. It is through the local events by which a team would be eligible to
advance to FIRST Championship.
Main landing page for FTC https://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/ftc
30
FIRST® TECH CHALLENGE
NSBE FIRST® TECH CHALLENGE IS NOT AN OFFICAL COMPETITION
FOR FIRST WORLD FESTIVAL QUALIFICATION.
FIRST® TECH CHALLENGE OVERVIEW
FIRST® TECH CHALLENGE COMPETITION COMPONENTS
Anyone who works with the team (coaches, mentors, topic experts, parents, etc.) may
teach team members new skills, handle logistics for the team, ask questions to get team
members thinking and remind them of the FIRST® LEGO® League rules. Adults play an
important role in coaching and supporting their team, but the team’s robot and project
should be the work of team members.
Team members must make all decisions and do all the work on the Robot Game and
Project. This includes deciding on strategy, building, programming, researching, choosing
a problem and innovative solution and presenting at a tournament.
GENERAL
There are three formats of Competition a Team might experience this season; traditional,
remote, and hybrid events. This manual describes traditional events; however, some
Teams may switch between formats depending on social distancing rules within their
state/region. Below are descriptions of these formats.
31
TEAM MEMBERS
Students may be members of only one (1) FIRST® Tech Challenge team per season.
Allowed grades in U.S., Canada and Mexico: 7th - 12th.
A team must have a minimum of two (2) and a maximum of fifteen (15) students.
No team member may be outside the maximum allowed grade range in your region prior
to January 1 of the year the challenge is released.
TRADITIONAL EVENTS
A traditional FIRST Tech Challenge event is typically held in a school or college gymnasium,
where Teams use Robots to compete in the current season’s game challenge. Teams
participating in traditional events compete with Alliance partners in a head-to-head style of
competition on the official FIRST Tech Challenge Playing Field. Teams compete in a series of
Matches that determine their ranking at a traditional Tournament. The size of a traditional event
can range anywhere from 8 Teams to over 50 Teams competing in one place. Traditional events
are generally scheduled by the local program delivery partner, and are run by many volunteers
including referees, judges, scorekeepers, queuers, and other key volunteers. Traditional events
consist of Robot inspections, Robot Competitions, judging interviews (for most Competitions),
and an overall celebration of Teams and their accomplishments. Game Manual Part 1 -
Traditional Events
REMOTE EVENTS
Remote events were developed to mimic traditional FIRST Tech Challenge events, while
practicing social distancing guidelines. Since Teams may not be able to gather and compete in
the traditional head-to-head competition format, the season’s official full Playing Field has been
adapted to allow Teams to play as a single Team. Remote Teams may order an official half
version of this season's field, or compete using a modified version of the field, which will be
released at kickoff on 9/9/2023. Teams will sign-up for events and will be provided with a time
window to submit their own Match scores, which will determine their rankings. Unlike
traditional events, the scoring of the official Matches is done by the Team, rather than an event
volunteer. Teams will participate in judging interviews via video conference when judging is
part of the event. To learn more about remote events, please read the Game Manual Part 1 –
Remote Events manual.
HYBRID EVENTS
A Hybrid event blends traditional in-person match play with judging interviews held via video
conference. Teams use Robots to compete in the current season’s game challenge in the
traditional style of an in-person event and participate in judging remotely using a video
conferencing tool for their initial and follow-up presentations with the judge panel.
CORE VALUES
FIRST® Tech Challenge expresses its philosophies of Gracious Professionalism and Coopertition
8 through its Core Values. We ask that everyone associated with every team understand and
honor these Core Values:
Innovation: We use creativity and persistence to solve our problems.
Impact: We apply what we learn to improve our world.
Discovery: We explore new skills and ideas.
Teamwork: We are stronger when we work together
Fun: We enjoy and celebrate what we do!
Inclusion: We respect each other and embrace our differences
CORE VALUES
APPLICATON PROCEDURE
NSBE FIRST® Tech Challenge registration is completed via an online application through
Jotform. The application can be found here. To fully complete registration, each team must also
complete registration at the FLL Website. Each team interested in participating for the program
year must submit an application for the program and meet all of the team requirements.
Completing all of the information in the application is vital.
IMPORTANT UPDATE: NSBE IS NO LONGER A FLL REGION. EACH TEAM MUST SELECT A
LOCAL REGION AND COMPETE WITHIN THAT GROUP TO HOPEFULLY QUALIFY FOR FIRST's
WORLD FESTIVAL. NSBE'S ANNUAL CONVENTION IS NO LONGER A QUALIFIER!
NSBE FIRST® TECH CHALLENGE
REGISTRATION TEAM REQUIREMENTS
Every NSBE FIRST® Tech Challenge team must:
Submit an application to participate at NSBE's Annual Convention here
Consist of a minimum of two (2) and up to a maximum of fifteen (15) ACTIVE NSBE Jr members.
Complete registration on the FLL website to receive their team number.
Consist of a combination of students in 7 - 12 grade.
Attend the 50th Annual Convention in Atlanta, GA
Assign a chapter advisor and team coach to complete the FIRST® Youth Protection
Program (Each team needs two registered coaches through FIRST® )
Chapter advisor and team coaches must provide a satisfactory NSBE background check
with Info Cubic.
IMPORTANT NOTE: : A NSBE FIRST® Tech Challenge coach can prepare more than one NSBE
FIRST® Tech Challenge team for the Annual Convention showcase.
32
33
Register with FIRST TECH CHALLENGE and
NSBE to participate at NSBE's Annual
Convention Showcase
Register your team on the FLL website
Register your team/chapter to attend
Annual Convention at convention.nsbe.org
Register your team to participate at NSBE
First Lego League showcase at Annual
Convention no later than Friday,
December 29, 2023 here
NSBE FIRST TECH CHALLENGE SHOWCASE
Held at NSBE's 50th Annual Convention
from March 20 - March 24, 2024 in
Atlanta, GA.
You can register for Convention and
receive updates/news here:
convention.nsbe.org
CRITICAL 2023 - 2024 FTC DATES
For quick reference, the following target dates are listed to ensure your participation in the
NSBE FIRST® Tech Challenge. Please read responsibilities, events, and target timeline carefully.
ALL links and resources are listed below and should be followed in the suggested order. For
further information on the upcoming NSBE conferences, please visit convention.nsbe.org
TEAM RESPONSIBILITY
AND EVENTS
TARGET TIME FRAME
(NO LATER THAN)
2824
iNSL Esport T.E.A.M.S. helps students explore data driven problem solving through gaming-
related challenges. iNSL is a nonprofit with 25 years in project-based learning and a focus on
helping students pursue and remain in STEM careers. The International STEM League offers
PreK to Professional learning in 12 countries on 4 continents.
Democratize data, cyber pathways, and AI with Esports. You choose the theme. You choose the
games. We help with data analysis, design for prototyping curriculum, and motivation to
succeed. iNSL partners with industry mentors to keep content relevant and exciting.
Partners at iRacing have provided hundreds of registrations to get NSBE students on track with
simulated racing. Test racing knowledge on simulated tracks, and learn sim car setup, vehicle
graphics, track strategy and teamwork in the iNSL iRacing Academy. Saturday practices start in
late September with Time Attacks and Heat Races to prep for live sanctioned races in April.
34
INTERNATIONAL STEM LEAGUE©
INTERNATIONAL STEM LEAGUE© OVERVIEW
INSL-NSBE T.E.A.M.S. LEAGUE
iNSL iRacing teams get on track and up to speed on private tracks, at optional Saturday
league practices, in sanctioned Time Attacks and in Feb-March Heat Races. Compete in
head-to-head sim racing at the NSBE Annual Convention.
Climb the points Leaderboard from Oct-March in the Esport T.E.A.M.S. Academic Season!
Earn points in Challenge-Focused Web Quests, Monthly STEMvestigations, and Esport
Challenge Project submissions
T.E.A.M.S. Challenges: Submit gaming industry related design & prototyping projects for
early review by industry mentors to earn points Oct-March. Then pitch final projects (after
feedback) at the NSBE Annual Convention.
How you game (or if you game) is up to you. Data driven scores are only one of the ways teams
can increase points.
Dashboard Challenge: Complete the NO CODING Data Analyst Course to earn a real Data
Analyst certificate from Eisengard AI. Enter Digital Dashboard projects created in the
course (community survey app + data visualization) to compete for remote internships
and prizes.
2824
Student teams tackle systems and engineering design for the gaming industry. Learn in Esport
T.E.A.M.S. Academy online with hands-on investigations and video covering the industry /
careers / roles associated with the project theme. Middle and high school students explore data
driven problem solving through popular Esport-related challenges. Pick one of the following
options to compete or showcase with iNSL-NSBE T.E.A.M.S. this season: iNSL iRacing, Esport
T.E.A.M.S. Leaderboard (points race) and Esport T.E.A.M.S. Challenge LIVE (prototype and pitch).
Support your challenge project by competing for prizes in multiple categories.
35
INSL-NSBE T.E.A.M.S COMPETITION
AWARD CATEGORIES:
Logbooks & Documentation Award
Graphic Design Awards
Presentation Award
Prototyping Award
Peripherals & Electronics Award
Community Impact Award
3 Minute Product Pitch (Finals i Atlanta only) Trophy & Remote Internship
AWARD CATEGORIES:
INSL IRACING T.E.A.M.S.
Students form a sim racing team to practice data driven decisions that boost performance on
and off the track. Learn strategies for improving teamwork, vehicle setup, and data analytics for
gaming while building a competitive sim racing club. Online courses contribute to team points
and introduce the 5 Ps (Planning, Performance, Prototyping, Peripherals, PR) that contribute to
success. Teams prepare on private tracks, at optional Saturday league practices, in
asynchronous Time Attacks and in Feb-March Livestreamed Heat Races. iRacing Series
competitors compete in head-to-head sim racing at the NSBE Annual Convention.
ESPORTS T.E.A.M.S. LEADERBOARD (POINTS RACE)
Climb the points Leaderboard from Oct-March in the Esport T.E.A.M.S. Academic Season!
Choose one or more challenge projects from the online academy. Earn points for the team by
mastering curriculum, conquering STEMvestigations and uploading category submissions for
the Esport T.E.A.M.S. Challenge project of your choice. Play favorite PC, console or mobile games
& use data to raise scores. Compete for individual medals, team awards, and prizes.
ESPORT T.E.A.M.S. CHALLENGE LIVE
Teams may submit 1 Esport Design & Prototyping Project for early review by industry mentors to
earn points in multiple categories during the Academic Season. Resubmit final projects (after
feedback) to compete at NSBE Annual Convention.
2824
iNSL iRacing Innovation Challenge:
Prototype a custom iRacing Sim Rig or iRacing Wheel-and-Pedal Peripheral for early review by
industry mentors to earn points in the Academic Season, then enter final projects (after
feedback) at the NSBE Annual Convention.
36
PROTOTYPING CHALLENGE
iNSL Mobile MODS Challenge:
Prototype a custom adaptive design to make gaming more accessible and enjoyable for all
gamers. The curriculum example is a mobile racing wheel for Rocket League, Forza Racing, or
Mario Kart style games. Adaptive design for any gaming platform is eligible.
Legendary Soft Circuits and Fortnite Wearables:
Design memorable team apparel or cosplay with electric flair. Incorporate LEDs to create
products that advertise / market your Chapter!
Sustainable Stadiums:
Take an MLB the Show (or other virtual stadium design) from screen to tabletop with an
architectural scale model. Bonus points for addressing sustainability and incorporating
electronics.
Tackling Augmented Reality:
Learn the basics of wire framing, app design and extended realities to launch an AR based
mobile app. Bonus points for concepts that benefit your community.
Wild Card Challenge:
Are you into robots, AI, bee keeping? Repurpose and submit a Data-Driven “Wild Card” Project
of your choice. The core of the project must prove that your team used data driven problem
solving no matter the topic. See the “Wild Card” rubric for details.
Community Impact
3 Minute Product Pitch (Finals in Atlanta only)
Dashboard Challenge:
Take the NO CODING “Democratizing Data with AI” Course to earn a real Data Analyst certificate
from Eisengard AI. Enter Digital Dashboard projects created in the course (community survey
app + data visualization) to compete for remote internships and prizes.
282437
INSL-NSBE T.E.A.M.S REGISTRATION
Teams must be comprised of active NSBE Jr. members.
Each team is entered into the Middle or High School series. If any single individual on a
team is in grades 9-12, the team must be High School.
Each team enters one or more of the following competition series: iNSL iRacing Series;
iNSL Esport T.E.A.M.S. Academic Season; iNSL Esport T.E.A.M.S. Challenge; High School
Dashboard Challenge.
Attendance at the 50th Annual Convention in Atlanta, GA is required. Complete all
application and registration requests before the deadlines.
Chapter advisor and team coaches must provide a satisfactory NSBE background check
with Info Cubic.
T.E.A.M.S APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Access curriculum for All Esport T.E.A.M.S. options during this premier season.
Curriculum, Coaching Files and Student Guides
1 Adult Membership with Student Sub-accounts.
5-Session, 10-Session and Extended Schedules / Agendas for Planning
1 Points Race Competition Entry & Leaderboard App
Compete in Prototyping & Presentation at the NSBE Annual Convention.
Showcase projects in the Metaverse.
12 Fully Funded Data Analyst Course Registrations
1 peripheral prototyping materials pack to support collaborative development of the wheel,
pedal and control panel for racing sim rig or racing tabletop setup.
12 iRacing Annual Registration codes
Source your own wheel for iRacing or add a rig package when registering.
Register for iNSL iRacing Challenge or Esport T.E.A.M.S Challenge.
Registration includes the following resources:
iNSL iRacing Challenge registration also includes:
Esport T.E.A.M.S. Challenge registration does not include a materials kit. Chapters are welcome
to source their own materials, but materials and kits for each challenge are available for
purchase from our partners HERE.
Register online at iNSL.org/NSBE after September 1st, 2023.
Learn more about challenges, rubrics, and dashboards at iNSL-competition.org
38
Register with INTERNATIONAL STEM LEAGUE
and NSBE to participate at NSBE's Annual
Convention Showcase
Register your iNSL team at here
Register your team/chapter to attend
Annual Convention at convention.nsbe.org
Register your team to participate in iNSL-
NSBE competition at Annual Convention
no later than Friday, December 29, 2023.
Middle School here
High School here
iNSL-NSBE Competition at Annual
Convention
Held at NSBE's 50th Annual Convention
from March 20 - March 24, 2024 in
Atlanta, GA.
You can register for Convention and
receive updates/news here:
convention.nsbe.org
CRITICAL 2023 - 2024 INSL DATES
For quick reference, the following target dates are listed to ensure your participation in the
iNSL-NSBE T.E.A.M.S competition at Annual Convention. Please read responsibilities, events, and
target timeline carefully. ALL links and resources are listed below and should be followed in the
suggested order. For further information on the upcoming NSBE conferences, please visit
convention.nsbe.org
TEAM RESPONSIBILITY
AND EVENTS
TARGET TIME FRAME
(NO LATER THAN)
2824
Regional Conference Competitions
Performance Assessment Test (PAT)
National Convention Quiz Bowl
Try-Math-A-Lon (TMAL) is a tutoring program meant to foster good study habits for minority
students, help prepare for standardized test exams such as the ACT and SAT and promote
competition and good sportsmanship. The TMAL competition is held between teams composed
of high school students in grades 9-12. The purpose of the competition is to help groom TMAL
team members for success in STEM courses and prepare them for standardized SAT/ACT
testing.
TMAL consists of three componenets:
1.
2.
3.
Please read thoroughly to have a good understanding of each aspect.
The TMAL rules should be used to guide TMAL coaches/advisors in preparation for the three
components of the program. TMAL coaches/advisors are encouraged to prepare their teams as
early as possible and share TMAL preparatory materials with other math, science, or technology
professionals who may be able to assist TMAL teams with competition preparation. TMAL
coaching can begin as early as the start of the school year through March of the next year.
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TRY-MATH-A-LON (TMAL)
TMAL OVERVIEW
TEAM REGISTRATION
Teams can be a combination of students in grades 9th - 10th for Lower Division and
grades 11th - 12th for Upper Division.
Each team will consist of four students and a mandatory alternate
Teams must be comprised of active NSBE Jr. members
TMAL teams can consist of students from the same grade level (e.g., four seniors or four
sophomores)
Attendance at the 50th Annual Convention in Atlanta, GA is required
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All teams have the opportunity to compete at the TMAL national competition to be held at the
NSBE National Convention.
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EVENT 1: FALL REGIONAL CONFERENCE COMPETITIONS
TMAL COMPETITION COMPONENTS
TMAL COMPETITION CURRICULUM
Algebra and Functions
Data Analysis, Statistics and Probability, Geometry, Measurements, Numbers, and Operations
Pre-Calculus
Problem Solving
Algebra and Functions
Data Analysis, Statistics and Probability, Geometry, and Measurements
Calculus
Trigonometry
Numbers and Operations
Problem Solving
TMAL questions are written with the curricula for grades 9th - 10th and 11th - 12th in mind. In
addition, many problems are designed to challenge and accelerate student learning and
questions become progressively more difficult at each level of the TMAL competition. Math
topics include:
Lower Division: 9th - 10th grade topics
Upper Division 11th - 12th grade topics
On-site and Virtually Fall Regional Conferences
TMAL Quiz Bowls will take place in-person and virtually during the 2023 Fall Regional
Conferences. Lower and Upper Division team winners from each region will receive an award
towards National Convention. Further details will be shared during the September and October
Advisor meetings and communications on how to register and where FRCs are being held.
FRC registration is required to participate in this competition.
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Lower Division
Upper Division
Algebra 1
Geometry
Numbers and Operations
Data Analysis & Probability
Problem Solving
Pre-Calculus
Algebra II
Geometry
Statistics
Trigonometry
Problem Solving
Calculus
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EVENT 2: PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT TEST (PAT)
School Year During NSBE Jr. Chapter Meetings
The Performance Assessment Test (PAT) evaluates our NSBE Jr. high school members’ college
mathematics pathway aptitude and readiness, promotes critical thinking skills and encourages
teamwork when preparing for the exams. These tests are timed and measure the teams’ ability
to solve problems using math concepts. This year, we are introducing the Pre-Performance
Assessment Test and the Official Performance Assessment Test.
The PAT exams will be administered through an online application prior to National Convention.
All active NSBE Jr. chapters will receive a link to the Pre- and Official PAT on October 2, 2023 and
January 15, 2024, respectively. Each team advisor will be responsible for proctoring the
assessments or securing a test proctor. The designated proctor should not be a parent or
affiliated with the TMAL team. Each team will have one hour to complete the test. All teams
participating in TMAL must complete the PAT and submit results to [email protected] by
November 6, 2023 for the Pre-PAT and February 19, 2024 for the Official PAT.
The NSBE Jr. members of the Lower and Upper Division teams with the best improvement
between their Pre and Official PAT results will receive a discount for their National Convention
registration. Teams that are eligible for this award must participate in the Pre and Official PAT,
as well as attend the National Convention in Atlanta, GA.
EVENT 3: NATIONAL CONVENTION QUIZ BOWL
There are (6) categories covered in the Lower and Upper Division. TMAL competition:
On-Site During National Convention
Game Rules and Guidelines
All teams that register for the National Convention’s TMAL Quiz Bowl will be able to compete.
Below are the game rules and guidelines that will be implemented.
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Each team will pick a category and select a point value when it is their turn.
Each category will have questions ranging in point value, increasing in difficulty
Teams will have three (3) minutes max to answer the question. Additional time may be
allotted for the more difficult questions increasing time to four (4) minutes.
Students are allowed to screenshot the question to take to their breakout rooms.
Teams will be able to provide a response. Each team will designate one representative to
buzz in/raise their hand while the game is in session as well as display their team’s
answer.
Representatives are not to display their answer until they are given notice.
A message will display, if necessary, that 30 seconds remain.
The representative will need to write their team’s final answer in its simplest form, legibly,
for facilitators to read when called upon (a thick marker may be the best utensil to use).
If a team answers the question correctly, the team will receive the point value for that
question.
If the team answers incorrectly the point value will be deducted.
Whichever team buzzed in second/next will be selected to control the board first and ask
a question. Afterwards, each team will control the board in the order that they appear
within the game.
The game is over when time runs out or all the questions have been selected.
The team with the highest score after the end of the game wins.
One award for Lower and Upper Division competitions will be presented at the Pre-Torch
Awards to the Lower Division and Upper Division Teams with the high scores.
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APPLICATION PROCEDURE
TMAL registration is completed via an online application through JotForm. The links for the
applications can be found here: (Lower Level | Upper Level). Each team interested in
participating for the 2023 -2024 program year must submit an application for the program and
meet all of the team requirements.
Fall Regional Conference Competitions
FRC registration information will be shared
separately.
Performance Assessment Test (PAT)
Pre-PAT results are due November 6,
2023.
Official PAT results are due February 19,
2024.
National Competition Quiz Bowl
Lower Division
Upper Division
Register your teams for National
Competition Quiz Bowl at Annual
Convention no later than November, 19,
2023
Competition held at NSBE’s 50th Annual
Convention in Atlanta, GA from March 20
- March 24, 2024.
CRITICAL 2023 - 2024 TMAL DATES
For quick reference, the following target dates are listed to ensure your participation in the
NSBE’s TMAL Competition at Fall Regional Conference and Annual Convention. Please read
responsibilities, events, and target timeline carefully. ALL links and resources are listed below
and should be followed in the suggested order. For further information on the upcoming NSBE
conferences, please visit convention.nsbe.org
TEAM RESPONSIBILITY
AND EVENTS
TARGET TIME FRAME
(NO LATER THAN)
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The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) presents the NSBE Jr. Explorer: Technical
Innovations Competition (TIC) — formerly known as the Science Fair. This program is tailored to
allow pre-collegiate students the opportunity to compete and explore the many applications of
science utilizing projects, competitions and science fairs. The NSBE Jr. Explorer: TIC will occur at
the 50th Annual Convention in Atlanta, GA March 20 - 24, 2024.
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NSBE JR EXPLORER
NSBE JR EXOLORER T-I-C OVERVIEW
ELIGIBILITY
HIGH SCHOOL (SENIOR): 9TH - 12TH GRADE STUDENTS.
MIDDLE SCHOOL (JUNIOR): 6TH - 8TH GRADE STUDENTS.
Students in grades 6 – 12 are eligible to participate in the NSBE Jr. Explorer’s Technical
Innovation Competition. Participants must be paid NSBE Jr. members.
The fair will be divided into two classifications:
In terms of awards, team projects will be judged separately from individual projects.
CRITERIA
Each student is only allowed to enter one project. The project may include no more than
12 months of continuous research.
A chapter may have as many participants as desired.
ETHICS STATEMENT
Scientific fraud and misconduct are not condoned at any level of research or competition. This
includes plagiarism, forgery, use or presentation of other researcher’s work as one’s own and
fabrication of data. Fraudulent projects will fail to qualify for the competition. NSBE reserves the
right to revoke recognition of a project subsequently found to be fraudulent.
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TEAM REQUIREMENTS
Teams may consist of a combination of students in grades 6 – 8 (Junior project teams) and
grades 9 – 12 (Senior project teams). Junior and Senior teams (grade groups) cannot be
combined.
Teams may have a minimum of one and max of three ACTIVE chapter members.
PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS
Team members cannot be changed during a given research year, including converting
from an individual project to a team project, or vice versa.
Teams may not substitute members in a given research year.
Each team is encouraged to appoint a team leader to coordinate the work and act as
spokes- person. It is recommended that each member of the team be able to serve as
spokesperson, be fully involved with the project and be familiar with all aspects of the
project. The final work should reflect the coordinated efforts of all team members and will
be evaluated using similar rules and judging criteria as individual project.
Full names of all team members must appear on the abstract, formal report, display and
all required forms.
Individual and team projects are required to be presented to a panel of judges and
evaluated based on a set criteria.
PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
The Middle and High School TIC research project options are separated into two categories.
CATEGORY 1: JUNIOR (MIDDLE SCHOOL) SCIENCE FAIR RESEARCH TOPICS
Biological/Life and Earth Sciences (Botany, Ecology, Geology, etc.) - A Biological/Life
Science project examines some aspect of the life or lifestyle of an organism or rocks.
Example: The Effect of Sound on Plants, Correlation of History Discovered in Rocks
Middle School Projects (6th - 8th grade) must fit within one of the three areas of science:
Physical Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, etc.) - A Physical Science project studies an abiotic
phenomenon in order to understand the relation of identified factors, perhaps including a
cause and effect relationship.
Example: Observation of Freezing Rates of Water for Different Starting Temperatures, The
Environmental Impact of Global Warming
Engineering (Electronics, Robotics, Mechanics, etc.) - An Engineering project applies
physical science knowledge to solve a problem or achieve a purpose.
Example: Design Considerations for Solar-Cell Powered Homes, The Power of
Programming and Electronics, Bridge Experiments & Analysis
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Advance Personalized Learning
Secure Cyberspace
Make Solar Energy Economica
Provide Access To Clean Water
Enhance Virtual Reality
Provide Energy From Fusion
Reverse-Engineer The Brain
Prevent Nuclear Terror
Engineer Better Medicines
Manage The Nitrogen Cycle
Advance Health Informatics
Develop Carbon Sequestration
Methods
Restore and Improve Urban
Infrastructure
Engineer The Tools of Scientific
Discovery
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CATEGORY 2: SENIOR (HIGH SCHOOL) GRAND CHALLENGE RESEARCH TOPICS
The High School Projects (9th - 12th grade) will address the National Academy of Engineering
(NAE) Grand Challenges. The science project can address any one of the grand challenges
however the team sees fit. The team must consider the TIC scientific research requirements first
and foremost.
Below are the list of the 14 Grand Challenges. Click on the link above for a description of the
challenge.
Certain science projects may be selected for further development, support and a pitch
presentation at the 49th Annual Convention. Further details will be shared with selected teams.
APPLICAITON REQUIREMENTS
NSBE Jr. Explorer: TIC registration is completed via an online application through Jotform. The
applications can be found here: (Middle School | High School).
Each team interested in participating for the 2023 - 2024 program year must submit an
application for the program and meet all of the above team requirements. COMPLETED
applications are due no later than 11:59 PM on November 19, 2023.
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Event
Total Qualifying Points
Project Summary
200 (160 minimum)
Oral/Multimedia Presentation
100 (85 minimum)
Poster Display
100 (85 minimum)
A. Purpose of the Experiment
C. Data
B. Procedure
D. Conclusions
47
Each individual and team is awarded a numerical score in each of the three events. At the end
of the competition the total points earned is computed by the rubric listed below. The individual
and team with the highest point total is the winner. There is a first and second place winner for
each division (high school and middle school, team and individual) of the competition. There will
also be one overall winner designated for each segment of the competition.
COMPETITION COMPONENTS
In order to qualify for an award, each team must meet the minimum qualification points total in
each category. No individual or team will be eligible for a prize if the minimum point totals have
not been awarded by the judges. If no teams or individuals meet the minimum, awards will not
be awarded in that category.
ABSTRACT
All registered NSBE Jr. participants must submit a 500-word maximum abstract to the NSBE
Professionals PCI Chair, Tracy Adams at [email protected]. Abstracts must be received no later
than 11:59 PM on December 17, 2023.
The subject line of the team email should read as follows:
Example: EffectsofRecycling_John.Doe_MiddleSchool
Abstract_FirstName. LastName_DivisionLevel
GUIDNELINES FOR ABSTRACTS
An abstract is a shortened version of the main ideas of your research paper. An abstract is a one-
page paper that is written after you have completed your research paper. It should be easy to
read, saving time from reading the entire research paper and is used by the judges to check
your research and reasoning. It must provide the necessary information to understand what the
research paper and project is about. Follow these instructions when writing the abstract.
The abstract should include the following:
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It may also include any possible research applications. Only minimal reference to previous work
may be included.
This is a report in which you summarize everything you have researched about the topic for
your science project. The size of the font should be no larger than 12 in Times New Roman or
Arial. The entire research paper should contain no more than 10 pages when you include the
title page, table of contents, abstract, body of the paper (about 5 pages), pictures page and
bibliography. The report will be submitted via email ([email protected]) by 11:59 PM on January
21, 2024.
No late submissions will be accepted.
RESEARCH PAPER
Abstract
Title Page
ORDER OF REQUIRED SECTIONS
»» Images and charts can be integrated within the body of the research paper or included in an
appendix.
An abstract must not include the following:
A. Acknowledgments (including naming the research institution and/or mentor with which
you were working, or self-promotions and external endorsements
B. Work or procedures done by the mentor
Introduction
Table of contents
Results
Materials & Methods
Conclusion
Discussion
References
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Information must be complete, clear and logical. Color and contrast will add to the overall
creativity of the display. The display must maintain an accurate experimental journal that shows
all of the data observed during the experiment. Data entries should include:
PROJECT DISPLAY & VISUAL PRESENTATION
Date and time of the observation
Name
Other observations like weather conditions, mistakes, expectation, etc.
Accurate description of the observation
Methods
Materials (list everything that was used to complete the experiment)
Tables, graphs and charts may be used to display your collected data
Results (include all pertinent data in graphs, data table or charts)
Pictures, drawings and/or photographs (make sure captions and descriptions are included)
Use your creative skills to design a display that will catch the eye of judges and other observers.
Your stand alone display poster can be: 1. A three panel (to display from a table), 2. A single panel
posters (to stand on an easel), or 3. These options are acceptable for the project display,
including the required components listed below.
Poster display components:
Abstract/summary
Title
Hypothesis
Purpose (state what will be determined by completing your experiment)
Conclusion (write a statement that summarizes the results of your data and based on your
hypothesis)
Acknowledgements
A copy of the abstract should be maintained at the Project Display.
Reminder: Bring a hard copy of your report to the competition site
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Participants will be given 10 minutes to complete an oral multimedia presentation. There will
also be a five minute question and answer session at the end of the presentation. During the
oral presentation, participants should go through each of the major sections of the project
(namely, the problem/research question, hypothesis, procedures/ methods and materials,
results and the conclusion).
Participants must be ready to answer all of the judges’ questions related to their project. A well-
organized multimedia presentation will give the judge most of what they are looking for.
However, the judges will often ask questions simply to ensure all participants understand their
project fully.
ORAL PRESENTATION
Reflections and Future Work/Plans
Conclusion
Acknowledgments
Purpose
Introduction
Results
Methods & Materials
A student’s ability to efficiently articulate their research is an important part of their
presentation. Students should be aware that they are representing themselves, schools and
NSBE to the public and should be dressed appropriately. Chewing gum, listening to music and
cellular phones are strictly prohibited during competition. Students should be respectful of
other students and judges. Grading rubrics for all parts of the competition will be shared with
participants prior to the convention.
ORDER OF REQUIRED SECTIONS
Information must be complete, clear and logical. Color and contrast will add to the overall
creativity of the display. The display must maintain an accurate experimental journal that shows
all of the data observed during the experiment.
Presentations should include:
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The safety of our members and the public is of the utmost importance. Precautions must be
taken to prevent the possibility of personal injury, property damage and the legal action that
could result from a lack of concern for safety.
Exhibits must be sturdy, with moving parts firmly attached and approved for safety. Each
exhibit must be self-supporting. Electricity (AC I 10 volt cycle) will be supplied, if requested;
however, no gas or water outlets will be provided. Switches and cords must be the approved
variety, and fuses or circuit breakers must protect circuits. Cell or battery-fed circuits should be
both safe in design and operation.
All sharp edges or corners on prisms, mirrors, enclosures and glass and metal plates must be
removed or otherwise protected. The length of hoses or extension cords is to be kept to a
minimum and out of the way to eliminate tripping hazards. Use tape for securing. Aisles and
exits should not be obstructed. Moving exhibits (e.g. radio-controlled vehicles, robots) should be
restricted to the regulation display space.
The Host Committee will try to provide an exhibition area to safely demonstrate projects that
require more space than the regulated exhibit display space. In addition to the regulations
noted here, there may be local municipal or provincial regulations, which must be followed. The
Host Committee shall share any such restrictions preceding the fair.
SAFETY
FIRE SAFETY
Restrictions have been defined on the construction of displays to reduce the possibility of
accidental fire during the fair. The Host Committee will be responsible for ensuring that fire
extinguishers of proper size and rating are available in the exhibition area, as well as evacuation
guidelines in case of an emergency.
Smoking is not permitted in the exhibit area
Combustible material must not be used near a heat source
Packing material must not be stored in the exhibit hall
CHEMICAL SAFETY
No containers of toxic or flammable chemicals are allowed. Dangerous chemicals are not
allowed-this includes prescription drugs and over-the-counter medication.
Substitutes for toxic and corrosive materials must be used. Common salt, for example, can be
used to simulate chemicals such as ammonium nitrate. Water may be used instead of alcohol,
ether and other highly flammable liquids. When chemicals are simulated, they should be
labeled with the names of the substance they represent preceded by the word “simulated.” No
project will be penalized because the key (but potentially dangerous) components were not on
display.
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ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Electrical exhibits shall use as low a voltage as possible. At the end of the viewing period, all
electrical exhibits must be disconnected and power bars switched off. Where practical and
necessary, it is recommended that pilot lights be used to indicate that the voltage is on.
Cord-connected electrical appliances should have a 3-wire conductor with ground. Electrical
devices must be protectively enclosed as far as it is practical. Any enclosure must be non-
combustible. All non-current carrying metal parts must be grounded. No exposed live parts over
36 volts are allowed. Current (amperage) must be low so as not to cause any discomfort or
danger if touched. Wet cells shall not be used because of the hazardous chemicals involved.
STRUCTURAL AND MECHANICAL SAFETY
Exhibits must be a safe design with adequate stability to keep from tipping. Dangerous moving
parts such as belts, gears, pulleys and propeller blades must be suitably guarded. Pressurized
vessels or compressed gas cylinders are not allowed.
Submit application to participate in 2023 -
2024 season
Register your team/chapter to attend
Annual Convention at convention.nsbe.org
Register your team to participate in TIC at
Annual Convention no later than Sunday,
November 19, 2023.
Middle School here
High School here
Abstract
Send abstract to [email protected] no
later than Sunday, December 17, 2023.
Research Paper
Send research paper to [email protected]
no later than Sunday, January 21, 2024.
NSBE Jr Explorer TIC National Poster and
Oral Presentation Competition
Held at NSBE’s Annual Convention in
Atlanta, GA from March 20 - March 24,
2024.
CRITICAL 2023 - 2024 TIC DATES
For quick reference, the following target dates are listed to ensure your participation in the
NSBE Explorer Technical Innovation Competition at Annual Convention. Please read
responsibilities, events, and target timeline carefully. ALL links and resources are listed below
and should be followed in the suggested order. For further information on the upcoming NSBE
conferences, please visit convention.nsbe.org
TEAM RESPONSIBILITY
AND EVENTS
TARGET TIME FRAME
(NO LATER THAN)
PCI ANNUAL
EVENTS
FALL REGIONAL CONFERENCES
Fall Regional Conferences (FRCs) provide a forum for discussion and information exchange
between pre-college, collegiate, professionals and corporate representatives at the regional
level. Within the three-day weekend each region encourages academic excellence and
leadership development through various technical, cultural, workshops and competitions and
Career and Graduate School Fairs.
All regions will host workshops and competitions. Regional Pre-College Initiative Chairs will
notify active chapters in their region about specific events taking place during FRC.
ANNUAL CONVENTION
NSBE’s Annual Convention provides inspiration, education and connections to pre-college,
collegiate and professionals attendees alike. Through inspiring keynotes, innovative discussions,
educational workshops, hands-on opportunities, competitions and much more, students will
learn how to engage in NSBE’s mission to increase the number of culturally responsible Black
Engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the
community.
2024 ANNUAL CONVENTION
ATLANTA, GA
MARCH 20 - MARCH 24, 2024
To register and for more information about Annual Convention visit convention.nsbe.org
NATIONAL SOCIETY OF BLACK ENGINEERS
WORLD HEADQUARTERS
205 DANGERFIELD ROAD
ALEXANDRIA, VA 22314
PHONE: 703. 549. 2207
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
TWITTER
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