The Technology Student Association (TSA) is a national Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) made up of students engaged in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Open to students enrolled in or who have completed STEM, engineering technology education, IT, and/or computer science courses, TSA’s membership includes over 233,000 middle and high school students in approximately 2,000 schools spanning 49 states. TSA is supported by educators, parents and business leaders who believe in the need for a technologically literate society. Members learn through exciting competitive events, leadership opportunities and much more. The diversity of activities makes TSA a positive experience for every student. From engineers to business managers, our alumni credit TSA with a positive influence on their lives.
Imagine an activity so captivating that students spend hours working on it after school for weeks at a time. That’s what happens when TSA members engage in TSA’s competitions. Only TSA members have the opportunity to compete at exciting regional, state and the annual National Conference. Expert judging by technology educators and industry representatives inspires the best from participants. Members are rewarded not only with medals, plaques or trophies, but also with memories of the camaraderie and the challenge of a TSA conference.
The Kentucky Technology Student Association (KYTSA) is also the ONLY approved CTSO aligned to Engineering, IT, Computer Science, and other STEM program of studies. As a CTSO our schools have access to Perkins fund to help offset the cost of competitions and conferences. Kentucky is graduating more post-secondary STEM students from than ever before and it is programs like TSA that expose our middle/high school students to STEM careers. KYTSA Students learn what it takes to succeed in the career world and are exposed to employability skills needed in the workforce.
DID YOU KNOW: TSA is the fastest growing CTSO in Kentucky? Find out why by joining today!
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Benevity is the global leader in online workplace giving, matching, volunteering and grant management. If your company works with Benevity you can support KYTSA!
Does your business or industry give to 501c3 organizations? If so please think about supporting our organization that impacts over 19,000 future STEM professionals each year.
The Technology Student Association (TSA) provides student members the opportunity to explore a wide variety of (science, technology, engineering, and math) STEM career interest areas.
All 70+ TSA middle school and high school competitions are correlated with national STEM standards and can be integrated into and enhance STEM curriculum. Participation in TSA competitions allows TSA members to apply technology and engineering skills in challenging and innovative ways. Working individually or as a team, student members are motivated by the inspiration and enthusiasm gained from being recognized for the successful application of those skills.
A chapter affiliates up to ten members by paying a flat fee (additional members may be added during the year for a fee).
The membership fee for Red CAP is $120 at the national level plus $60 state dues.
A chapter affiliates eleven or more members by paying a per member White CAP fee for state and national dues.
The membership fee for White CAP is $12 per member at the national level plus $6 state dues.
A chapter affiliates an unlimited number of members in a school for a flat fee (typically effective when there are more than 25 members).
The membership fee for Blue CAP is $400 at the national level plus $150* state dues.
*Blue CAP state rate is $0 if you affiliate by the priority membership deadline and roster ALL current students in your program into the TSA system.
The Technology Student Association fosters personal growth, leadership, and opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM); members apply and integrate these concepts through co-curricular activities, competitions, and related programs.
I believe that Technology Education holds an important place in my life in the technical world. I believe there is a need for the development of good attitudes concerning work, tools, materials, experimentation, and processes of industry. Guided by my teachers, artisans from industry, and my own initiative, I will strive to do my best in making my school, community, state, and nation better places in which to live. I will accept the responsibilities that are mine. I will accept the theories that are supported by proper evidence. I will explore on my own for safer, more effective methods of working and living. I will strive to develop a cooperative attitude and will exercise tact and respect for other individuals. Through the work of my hands and mind, I will express my ideas to the best of my ability. I will make it my goal to do better each day the task before me, and to be steadfast in my belief in my God, and my fellow Americans.
Mark Harrell is a dynamic force in STEM education, serving as the Engineering Consultant & KYTSA State Advisor within the Office of Career and Technical Education at the Kentucky Department of Education. With a bachelor’s degree in Technology Education from Purdue University and a master’s in Career and Technical Education Administration from Eastern Kentucky University, Mark has dedicated his career to inspiring K-12 students to pursue STEM careers.
Mark's career began at Bryan Station High School in Lexington, KY, where he ignited a love for lifelong STEM learning. He then built one of Kentucky’s top Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Engineering Pathways at Franklin County Career Tech Center. As Franklin County's first District STEM Coordinator, he developed a pioneering STEM curriculum that impacted students from preschool through high school.
His passion for expanding STEM education led him to the role of Director of School Engagement at PLTW, where he tirelessly worked to implement and sustain STEM programs across Kentucky and Tennessee. In his current role, Mark advises schools on best practices in Engineering Technology Education and provides support to the Kentucky Technology Student Association (KYTSA).
Mark has been instrumental in revamping the Engineering Technology Education Program, aligning it with industry needs, and securing multiple grants for STEM initiatives. He has developed dual credit opportunities to boost college enrollment and retention, and manages the KYTSA annual budget of over $500,000.
Residing in Frankfort, KY, with his wife Erin and their two children, Treyton and Elliotte, Mark's dedication to STEM education is unwavering. His passion, vision, and relentless pursuit of excellence continue to inspire students, educators, and communities across Kentucky.
Kentucky Department of Education
300 Sower Blvd - 5th Floor
Frankfort, KY 40601
mark.harrell@education.ky.gov
(502) 564-4286, ext. 4227
Twitter: @Harrell_STEM
Andy Stephenson is the KYTSA State Coordinator within the Office of Career and Technical Education at the Kentucky Department of Education. Andy graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Arts Education in 1982 and obtained his Master of Science in Industrial Technology Education in 1989, again from Eastern Kentucky University. He has dedicated his career to preparing students to be creative problem solvers, critical thinkers and lifelong learners. Andy began his career teaching students at Monticello High School in Wayne County KY. In 1988 Andy moved to Clark County and developed a recognized Technology Education program at Conkwright & Clark Middle Schools. During this time Andy became involved Professionally with KIEA/KATEA & ITEEA, the state and national association representing and providing professional development opportunities for Technology Education teachers. He has served various positions in both organizations including President of both associations. Andy then taught seven years at Scott County High School before moving to Southside Technical Center in Fayette county and developed a unique 8thgrade pre-engineering program that became a feeder program to the Fayette County Career and Technical programs. Also, he has been deeply involved with TSA as a local advisor, national event coordinator and since 2012 an event manager on the national TSA CRC. Andy most recently served as the Virginia TSA State Advisor for 5 years. He is a current resident of Winchester, KY and is married to Laura Stephenson with two children and three grandchildren.
Kentucky Department of Education
300 Sower Blvd - 5th Floor
Frankfort, KY 40601
joseph.stephenson@education.ky.gov
(502) 564-4286, ext. 4246