Science, Technology, Engineering, and Industrial Arts
Robots and Rockets
There are six classes of Aerospace and Rocketry projects: two-part built rocket exhibits, and educational poster presentations for each of three stages of aeronautical engineering: Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3.
- Aerospace-Rocketry Evaluation Sheet (861-26)
- Aerospace-Rocketry Explanation Card (861-25)
- Blank Aerospace-Rocketry Project Description Card
- Rocketry Engineering Journal Template
- Aerospace Poster Explanation Card (861-07) new fillable format
To submit a robotics project, use the score sheet to guide your work. This is what the judge will use to evaluate your project at State Fair. Complete the explanation card in full in order to help the judge understand your reasoning and process. The Explanation Card takes the place of an interview, so it's very important to communicate clearly. You may submit your explanation as a document, audio, or video description. For help submitting audio or video descriptions, please contact [email protected].
- Robotics Project Score Sheet (861-02)
- Robotics Project Explanation Card (aka Description) (861-23)
Resources
Scientific Investigation
Science investigation Display Evaluation Sheet (840-100)
Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, and Engineering Design
Built Computer (Hardware) Projects
Got a knack for building or modifying hardware? Create and display a project that shows off your skills. Be sure it works at fair and tell us what you made and why.
Programming Projects
Code your own program or game! You’ll need to include your actual code (not just the final product) and give clear directions so judges can test it. Whether you're using Scratch, Python, or GameMaker, your project should show what you’ve learned and built.
- Computer Programming Project Evaluation Sheet (861-01)
- Computer Programming Project Description (861-11)
Software Projects
Make something awesome using your favorite software! Choose from:
- Spreadsheets – Create charts or data tools (use formulas if you're intermediate or senior).
- Database Management – Build something that organizes and uses information.
- Multimedia Projects – Combine text, audio, video, or animation in one cool creation.
- 3D Printer Application –
Use the following resources to submit your project:
Resources
Are you curious about how circuits work or how to power something up?
Electrical Engineering exhibits are perfect for 4-H’ers who love experimenting with wiring, sensors, LEDs, or even robotics. You can create a circuit board, build a basic electronic gadget, or demonstrate how electricity moves through a system. Just like the other categories, your project should be labeled, include a description sheet, and follow size limits. And don’t forget to make sure your project is safe, functional, and ready to impress the judges!
Resources
Electrical Engineering Score Sheet (862-01)
Have an idea for solving a real-world problem? The Engineering Design exhibit is where your creativity, curiosity, and tinkering skills come to life! You’ll work through the engineering design process—the same kind used by professional engineers—to invent or improve something using your own ideas.
Your project should include two parts:
-
An engineering notebook that walks through all seven design steps—from identifying the problem to testing your prototype.
-
An educational poster that shows off your final design with photos, diagrams, and a story of your process.
You’ll get to:
- Identify a problem you want to solve
- Research what others have done
- Brainstorm multiple possible solutions
- Build a prototype
- Test and improve it
- And explain how your final design works!
You don’t need fancy materials—just a creative mind, a solid plan, and a willingness to learn from your mistakes. Your project can include models, photos, or simple electronics (as long as it's safe). And remember: what matters most is the thinking and testing you put into your project, not just how it looks.
No prior enrollment in a 4-H engineering project is required—just bring your ideas and your passion for solving problems.
Industrial Arts: Welding and Wood Science
Woodcarving, woodcraft, woodworkers... you belong here!
- Wood Science Score Sheet (871-01)
- Wood Science Explanation Sheet (871-02)
Resources
Welding is the science of joining and cutting materials like steel and aluminum.
Resources
- Welding Score Sheet (861-02)
- Welding Explanation Card (861-01)