From Ideas to Action:
Semi-Finalists Step Forward

Launched in October 2024, the CTE CHIPS Challenge invited participants nationwide to submit innovative action plans to recruit, train, and place students in high-demand CHIPS-aligned careers. A panel of judges representing career and technical education (CTE) educators, businesses, and industry selected 36 semi-finalists to advance to Phase 2. From April through December 2025 they’ll receive tailored technical assistance and participate in a dynamic community of practice to support and implement their proposed plans.

Challenge Overview

The What, Why, How, When, and Who

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What

The CTE CHIPS Challenge, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education, is a multi-phase $1 million prize competition that will empower you to expand your student recruitment, training, and placement strategies in semiconductor fabrication (fab) construction and advanced manufacturing careers that align with the CHIPS and Science Act (CHIPS).

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Why

There are lots of benefits to becoming a challenge participant.

• Connect your students with exciting careers.
• Network with peers across the country. 
• Learn from subject matter experts.
• Receive technical assistance.
• Access free resources.   
• Compete for cash prizes.
• Feature your work on a national scale.

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How

Submit an innovative action plan to: (a) increase your students’ opportunities to develop skills and experiences that better prepare them for the careers aligned with CHIPS; (b) expand your student recruitment, training, and placement strategies in these careers; and (c) support your teachers in building out CTE programs. 

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When

Challenge Timeline

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Who

The U.S Department of Education seeks innovative action plans from career and technical education programs, schools, nonprofits, workforce boards and more. 

Not sure if you qualify for this challenge? Check out the Official Rules, Terms and Conditions.