STUDENTS

SAMPE 2026 offers students a unique opportunity to showcase their creativity, technical skills, and leadership. Through a variety of competitions, participants can present their ideas, test their abilities, and gain recognition from industry professionals. Engaging in these contests provides valuable experience, meaningful connections, and a platform to bring innovative projects to life on a global stage.

Student Competition FAQs

Where do I find my registration number for my proposal?

Your bridge number is your registration confirmation number. You can find this in your registration confirmation email, and it will be an 11-digit code.

For example: Q2NN5TDDSXR

Still can't find your registration confirmation number? Please email lauren@sampe.org.

What registration type do I need to participate in the Student Competitions?

Since the Student Contests are held in the Exhibit Hall, you can purchase any registration pass that gives you access to that. You can view our registration types here.

What does the $45 fee cover for the Student Competition?

This fee is for whomever oversees registering your team (must be a SAMPE Member). This fee will cover the cost for your entire team to participate.

Notes: It is $45 per category/contest.

What if I am not a SAMPE Member but would like to participate in the competition(s)?

It is required that all teammates are a SAMPE member. To become a SAMPE Member, please reach out to kschacht@sampe.org.

Where do I check in for the Student Competitions?

You will be able to check in for the Student Contests in the Exhibit Hall, where the contests are held.

Check-in Schedule:

Tuesday, April 28, 2026: Pickleball Paddle Design | Check-in: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Contest: 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Tuesday, April 28, 2026: Additive Manufacturing | Check-in: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Contest: 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Wednesday, April 29, 2026: Student Bridge | Check-in: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Contest: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

I won't be able to check in during regular check-in hours, what do I do?

Out-of-sequence check-ins will need to be communicated prior to the start of the standard check-in period. Approval of out-of-sequence check-ins will be on a case-by-case basis.

What do I need to bring onsite to check in?

You will need your SAMPE badge that you can pick up from Registration. You also will need to bring your materials to get them approved.

We are not liable for any misplaced or lost items.

Where are the winners announced?

Winners of the Student Competitions will be announced at our Student Social, Wednesday, April 29, 2026, 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Where and when is the Student Social?

The Student Social will be Wednesday, April 29, 2026, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. at the Westin Seattle (1900 5th Ave., Seattle, WA 98101).

*RSVP Required. If you have already registered, you can add it on by logging into your registration and modifying it.

Where can I find the Fuselage competition?

Fuselage will not be happening at SAMPE 2026. Stay tuned for more Fuselage Contest information for SAMPE 2027 in Salt Lake City.

Student Competition Mandatory Rules:

ALL students must follow the same rules, provided on the individual SAMPE Student Competition pages. Deviation from the rules and deadlines will result in point deductions and sometimes outright disqualification. Arguing and any other non-professional behavior directed towards, or during interaction with, the judges will result in the disqualification of the offending team or individual.

Students