MAKERS OF CHANGE CHALLENGE

The MAKERS of Change Assistive Technology Challenge engages Arizona high school science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), coding, robotics and technology teams to troubleshoot and create “real-world” solutions that will help improve the lives of young children with disabilities.

The 2026 Challenge begins August 24, 2026 and we are NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS from any Arizona High School or After School Program or Club supporting Arizona High School students interested in advancing their STEM knowledge.

Please note these Challenge requirements before submitting your application: 

  • Open to any Arizona public, private or charter High School or After School Program or Club focused on STEM
  • Participants must have an instructor or adult associated with the program or club to serve as the direct point of contact for all program communication and oversight of team
  • High school students participate in teams comprised of 3-5 students
  • The five-week Challenge concludes on September 25 with each team submitting a digital poster and video outlining their Challenge solution
MAKERS CHALLENGE SCHOOL/CLUB APPLICATION FORM

SEEKING VOLUNTEER MENTORS AND JUDGES

The MAKERS of Change Assistive Technology Challenge engages high school students to advance their STEM knowledge and learn important lessons about the practical application of assistive technology solutions to support young children with disabilities.

Volunteer mentors and judges are integral to the success of this annual challenge and have two specific and finite tasks:

1. Connect with a high school class working on the Challenge for a one hour virtual coaching session

2. Grade high school student projects and offer constructive feedback virtually

VOLUNTEER MENTOR AND JUDGE APPLICATION FORM

Important Dates:

  • 08/14/26 – High School/Club Challenge applications due
  • 08/21/26 – Volunteer Mentor Applications due
  • 08/24/26 – Challenge Begins
  • 09/8/26 – 9/11/26 – Volunteer Mentors meet with teams
  • 09/21/26 – Volunteer Judge Applications due
  • 09/25/26 – Challenge Ends with team submission of digital poster and video outlining Challenge solution
  • 10/1/26 – 10/6/26 – Volunteer Judges review and score submissions
  • 10/23/26 – In-person Finalist Presentations

Please contact Louann Phillips at (602) 361-3785 or email [email protected] for more information.

2026 Challenge Made Possible with the Support of: