“The American Rocketry Challenge launches not just rockets, but also the careers of the next generation of aerospace innovators, and today is just the beginning for our 100 national finalists,” Eric Fanning, AIA President and CEO, said. “These teams from across the country have worked all year to bring skill, creativity, and ingenuity to rocketry design and building, and on May 17, their hard work will pay off as they compete in the National Finals. I look forward to seeing these students shine and crowning our next National Champion.”

“The American Rocketry Challenge has been instrumental in fostering a passion for aerospace and engineering among students,” said Jessica Pedersen, AIA Senior Director for American Rocketry Challenge and STEM Engagement. “This yearlong program not only teaches technical skills but also inspires teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity. The impact of this competition is evident in the enthusiasm and talent of participants. I am excited to see how these bright innovators will continue to shape the future of STEM.”

The 2025 American Rocketry Challenge saw unprecedented participation, with a record-breaking 1,001 teams entering the competition in its 23rd year. The competing teams are composed of middle and high school-aged students from 46 states and Washington D.C. To qualify for the National Finals, participating teams designed, built, and launched model rockets that carry two raw eggs to an altitude of 790 feet, stay airborne for between 41 and 44 seconds, and return the rocket to the ground safely.

The National Finals will take place at Great Meadow in The Plains, VA, on May 17. The requirements for the National Finals will be modified to introduce a new challenge to the teams.

Competition finalists will compete for $100,000 in prizes and the prestigious title of National Champion. The winning team will then represent the United States and compete at the International Rocketry Challenge at the Paris Air Show in June.

Sponsored by AIA, the National Association of Rocketry, and 15 industry, government, and academia partners, the American Rocketry Challenge is the aerospace and defense industry’s flagship program designed to encourage students to pursue study and careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The competition has inspired more than 100,000 middle and high school students to explore education and careers in STEM fields.

See the top 100 teams here: 2025 National Finalists

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