Competition Classes

The STEM Racing Challenge in the US currently is divided into two classes - Developmental and Professional.

Younger teams (typically recommended for grades 5-8) that are just starting out are encouraged to join the Developmental class. This often allows teams to start up programs easier and gain experience with the challenge and can serve as a stepping stone for teams that plan to compete for multiple years. Development Class teams can compete up to the National level for the title of National Champions. The maximum grade level for entry into the Delvelopment Class is 8th grade (see Competition Regulations) and the minimum age is 9 years old.

The Professional Class is recommended to older teams (typically grades 8-12) who have experience with CNC/CAM or would like to challenge themselves with the new learning experience. Professional Class teams compete at the National level to earn the right to represent our countries at the World Finals for the title of World Champions! There is no grade limit restrictions to the Professional class - any student aged 9-19 years old can compete!

However, both classes are open to teams - feel free to join whichever suits your team best! It’s not a requirement to start out in the Development class if you’re ready for the ultimate STEM Racing Challenge!

Let’s look at some other differences between the two classes for the 25/26 Season…

Competitive Elements:

Development:

10-Minute Verbal Presentation
Three STEM Racing Cars (two for racing, one for display) that are 3D Printed.
One 7-page Design and Engineering Portfolio
One 10-page Project Management & Enterprise Portfolio
A Table-Top Pit Display
Engineering Drawings and Renderings

Professional:

10-Minute Verbal Presentation
Three STEM Racing Cars (two for racing, one for display) manufactured with CNC router.
One 11-page Design and Engineering Portfolio
One 11-page Enterprise Portfolio
One 7-page Project Management Portfolio
A freestanding 8’x10’x3’ Pit Display
Engineering Drawings and Renderings

The Car:

The Development Class features reduced technical requirements compared to the Professional Class and car bodies are required to be 3D Printed and wheels are regulated to a standard design. For the Professional Class, car bodies must be CNC machined from the official STEM Racing Model Block and teams may select the design/materials for all other parts of their car. Please review the technical regulations to see all specific differences. Both classes undergo the same number of races and racing procedure at competitions.

Competition:

Both teams compete at the same time at the Regional and National Competitions, often with the same set of judges. This allows Development Class teams to get quality feedback to prepare them from the Professional level of competition. However, only Professional class teams are eligible to represent the US at the World Finals.