DEARBORN, MICHIGAN – Nearly 500 bright and creative youth inventors from across the United States have gathered at The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation to participate in the 10th annual RTX Invention Convention U.S. Nationals. Hosted from June 5 to June 7, 2025, this event celebrates the next generation of problem-solvers, engineers, and entrepreneurs.
Backed by Raytheon Technologies (RTX), the national competition is part of the Invention Convention Worldwide program, which encourages K–12 students to create real-world solutions through hands-on invention experiences. Students showcase their projects in front of a panel of judges made up of business leaders, educators, and engineers, all competing for top awards and national recognition.
To learn more about the event and its impact, visit the official Invention Convention website.
A National Platform for Young Innovators
Each year, students from local and regional invention conventions work hard to qualify for the national stage. The 2025 competition features nearly 500 student inventors from 25 states, including participants from both public and private schools, as well as homeschool programs.
The Henry Ford Museum, a historical hub for American innovation and creativity, serves as the perfect backdrop for the event. As students display their inventions among exhibits honoring Thomas Edison, Rosa Parks, and Henry Ford himself, the symbolism is powerful and inspiring.
“These students are not just learning to invent — they are learning to lead,” said Dr. Susan Shields, executive director of Invention Convention Worldwide. “They are the future of American innovation.”
Innovative Ideas That Solve Real Problems
This year’s inventions address a wide variety of challenges, from environmental concerns to health care improvements, accessibility solutions, and even smart technology. Some stand-out projects include:
- A biodegradable alternative to plastic straws created by a 6th-grade student from California.
- A smart pill dispenser for Alzheimer’s patients invented by a high school junior from Texas.
- A self-watering system for houseplants using rainwater and solar energy.
- A wearable alert device for kids with food allergies.
All inventions must go through a rigorous judging process that considers originality, research, design, and functionality.
RTX’s Role in Inspiring Future Innovators
Raytheon Technologies, a global aerospace and defense company, has been the title sponsor of the Invention Convention U.S. Nationals for the last five years. RTX supports STEM education and innovation initiatives as part of its broader mission to nurture future talent.
“We believe innovation begins with imagination,” said Jennifer Jones, RTX’s Director of STEM Programs. “These students are our future engineers, scientists, and problem-solvers. Supporting them is an investment in a better tomorrow.”
More about RTX’s educational partnerships and initiatives can be found on their STEM Innovation page.
Judging, Awards, and More
The 2025 RTX Invention Convention U.S. Nationals will conclude on June 7 with an awards ceremony recognizing winners across various grade levels and invention categories. Some of the key award categories include:
- Most Marketable Invention
- Best Female Inventor
- Sustainability and Environmental Impact Award
- Innovation in Accessibility
- Engineering Excellence Award
Finalists and winners may also receive opportunities to patent their inventions, work with professional mentors, and even be featured in the Innovation Nation show hosted by The Henry Ford and CBS.
The Power of Youth Innovation
What makes the Invention Convention unique is not just the incredible inventions, but the stories behind them. Students are encouraged to explore problems they care about — whether it’s a family member’s health, climate change, or challenges they’ve experienced personally.
One 12-year-old participant from Ohio said, “I invented a quiet seat cushion for kids with ADHD because I know how hard it is to sit still in class.” Her idea earned her a finalist spot in the Health and Wellness category.
The personal connection to each project fuels motivation and creativity, reinforcing why invention education is so valuable.
Education Experts Emphasize Invention Literacy
The program is based on the concept of invention literacy, the idea that students should not only consume technology but also understand how to create and improve it. This approach aligns with modern educational goals that promote problem-solving, critical thinking, and hands-on learning.
“We are preparing students not just for jobs, but for jobs that don’t even exist yet,” said Karen Peterson, an education strategist at the STEM Learning Coalition. “Invention Convention equips them with the tools to build that future.”
You can read more about invention literacy and educational benefits on The Henry Ford’s Learning Resource Hub.
Looking Ahead: The Next Generation of Inventors
Now in its 10th year, the Invention Convention U.S. Nationals has grown into a symbol of what’s possible when children are empowered to think creatively. Many past participants have gone on to win patents, start businesses, and attend top universities with scholarships based on their inventions.
As this year’s event draws to a close, it’s clear that these young minds are already shaping the world. From tackling global challenges to improving everyday life, their work serves as a reminder that great ideas can come from anyone, anywhere — and at any age.
For ongoing updates, interviews, and videos from the 2025 RTX Invention Convention, visit the official Henry Ford website or follow #InventionConvention on social media platforms.
Conclusion
The RTX Invention Convention U.S. Nationals 2025 is more than just a science fair. It is a national celebration of creativity, determination, and the power of young minds. With nearly 500 students bringing their ideas to life at one of the most iconic museums in the country, the future of American innovation looks very bright.
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