The certification framework utilizes a multi-level structure to accurately reflect the varying degrees of experience, autonomy, and responsibility demonstrated by participants. Modules are categorized into four distinct levels: Junior, Mid, Senior, and a single-level Leadership position.
This is an entry-level position for participants who are typically new to the project or a specific domain. A Junior member works under direct supervision, following established guidelines and templates to complete assigned tasks. Their focus is on learning fundamental skills and contributing to specific, well-defined parts of a larger objective.
A participant at the Junior level demonstrates the ability to follow instructions, use provided tools and templates, and contribute effectively to a section of a task or document. They are developing their technical and collaborative skills within the team environment. The number of Junior positions is unlimited.
A participant at the Mid level operates with a greater degree of independence than a Junior. They can manage small-scale tasks or complete significant portions of a subsystem with minimal supervision. While they may still seek guidance on complex or novel challenges, they are expected to be proficient in their area of responsibility and can be relied upon to deliver consistent results.
A Mid-level participant possesses solid technical or functional skills and can apply them to solve problems. They demonstrate an ability to work independently, manage their time effectively, and contribute meaningfully to the project’s progress without constant oversight. The number of Mid-level positions is unlimited.
Senior members are experienced participants who exhibit a high degree of autonomy, technical mastery, and problem-solving ability. They are often responsible for critical sections of the project, ensuring technical accuracy and quality. Seniors may also take on a mentorship role, guiding Junior and Mid-level members and contributing to the team’s overall knowledge base.
A Senior participant demonstrates the ability to independently author and manage complex tasks, ensure technical excellence, and make sound engineering or management decisions. They possess deep expertise in their module’s domain and contribute to the project at a strategic level. A maximum of five Senior positions are available per team.
These are exclusive, top-tier roles reserved for the main leaders of the project, a major system (like the rover or drone), a department, or a competition task. Individuals in these positions are fully responsible for all activities within their domain, combining high-level technical oversight with managerial duties like planning, scheduling, and resource management.
A participant in a Leadership role demonstrates exceptional skills in strategic planning, execution, and management. They are capable of leading multidisciplinary teams, making critical decisions, and taking ultimate responsibility for the success of their designated area, whether it’s the entire mission or a specific competition task.