FAQ Student Competition Info | PACK Challenge Competition

What is the PACK Challenge?



The PACK Challenge is a real-world packaging competition that brings together high school teams for a head-to-head machine-building contest. Teams are tasked with designing, building, and showcasing innovative packaging machinery, putting their creativity, engineering skills, and teamwork to the ultimate test.

When and where does the next PACK Challenge take place?



From registration through to the qualifier round, the competition takes place virtually. Teams will develop their concept and design within their own school, lab, or workshop space, and submit a video presentation along with supporting materials for judging.

Teams who advance to the finals will receive their official build kit by January and have until October to bring their machine to life — again, in their own local school or lab environment.

The finals will take place in person at PACK EXPO International in Chicago in October 2026.

Finalist teams will receive support to transport their machine to the show, where they’ll take on a series of live challenges in front of industry judges.

Who can participate?



High school teams from registered schools, STEM programs, or organizations are invited to participate! Each team should include students with a mix of skills, such as mechanical, electrical, programming, and marketing. Working together as a team helps bring different ideas and talents to the project.

Every team must have a designated advisor, such as a teacher, coach, or program coordinator, who will guide and support the students.

What is the objective of the competition?



Teams are challenged to design and build functional packaging machinery that addresses real-world industry needs. The competition emphasizes innovation, efficiency, and practical application, providing students with hands-on experience in the packaging field.

Are there coaching staff? What are their qualifications?



Our coaching staff includes experienced industry professionals with a thorough understanding of the game and a passion for helping players reach their full potential.

How are teams selected for the competition?



Teams are selected through a qualifying process managed by PMMI PACK Challenge. This process may involve preliminary rounds and evaluations to ensure teams are prepared for the competition's demands.

What resources are provided to participating teams?



Once your team registers, you’ll get access to the competition portal, where you’ll find everything you need to get started in the qualifier round. This includes the customer request letter, technical details, important dates, and helpful resources to guide your team through the challenge.

You won’t be doing it alone! Teams will also have the opportunity to connect with industry mentors and leaders from the packaging industry who can share advice, answer questions, and help you think like real engineers and innovators.

If your team advances to the finals, most of the components and materials needed to build your machine will be shipped directly to your school, courtesy of the PACK Challenge and our industry partners, so your team can turn your design into a real, working machine.

Are there prizes?



Yes, there are up to $20,000 in prizes to be won!

How to register a school or team.



Designate a school advisor—a teacher, mentor, or program lead will be the go-to contact. Complete the registration form and fill out basic info: school name, location, advisor contact details, and program focus(engineering, robotics, etc.). Hit submit and wait for a confirmation email with your school code.

Can I still go to PACK EXPO if I don’t qualify for finals?



Absolutely! We encourage students to attend the shows to support the finalists. It's also a fantastic opportunity to see the Packaging and Processing industry and all the technology that comes with it - everything from automations and robotics!

When does registration for the next season open?



The 2027/28 competition season will be announced in the Spring of 2027.

What’s required of the teams?



We highly recommend that you have access to CAD design software, a 3D printer, or similar products to develop a prototype of your machine, along with the tools and space to build your machine if you get through to the finals!

Other than that, all you need is the space to build, the right mindset, and a winning attitude!

How much does it cost?



The competition is free to enter, and the PACK Challenge is designed to be as accessible as possible for participating teams. PMMI and competition sponsors will provide many of the key materials and resources needed to support your team throughout the challenge.

Teams should be aware that they will need access to basic materials and tools within their own school or lab environment (for example, standard workshop tools, building materials, and access to CAD or a similar design program) in order to develop and construct their machine.

How big are the teams?



Teams don’t have a set size; however, we recommend 5-15 students.

What does the PACK Challenge registration include?



Once you register for the PACK Challenge, here’s what you’ll get access to:

Access to the Competition Portal – Your innovation journey starts here!
Welcome Kit – Blueprints, rules, and all the essentials to kick off your challenge.
Mentor Access – Connect with industry experts who can guide your team.

Frequently Asked Questions.

Questions? Get in Touch

About

Building Futures

Resources

Contact Us