Dover, DE — The Office of Career and Technical Education and STEM Initiatives is proud to celebrate the success of the 52nd annual Delaware Technology Student Association (DETSA) State Leadership Conference, held April 8–9 at Clayton Hall, University of Delaware. Nearly 800 students from across the state showcased their creativity, technical expertise, and leadership in a dynamic event highlighting Delaware’s next generation of STEM innovators and changemakers.
The two-day conference featured the results of 63 competitive events related to advanced manufacturing, engineering, STEM, information technology, biosciences, and digital communications. The event was made possible through support from volunteers, business and industry leaders, and post-secondary institutions.
Key Highlights
Exhibitors and Presenters:
- University of Delaware – College of Engineering (Sponsor & Exhibitor)
- Dynamic Systems
- Tapp Network
- Delaware Foundation for Science and Mathematics Education
- Pitsco
- Delaware Tech Community College
- Assistive Medical Technologies Club
- University of Delaware – Geography, Business, Agriculture & Admissions
- Wilmington University
Workshops & Sessions:
- UD College of Engineering Tour
- Biomedical, Electrical & Computer, Mechanical, Civil & Environmental, Materials Science
- Hands-on Engineering Activities
- STEM Careers Panel – Delaware STEM Leaders
Special Awards:
- Dr. John Brown High School Advisor of the Year – Gerald Sheridan, Indian River High School
- John Singer Middle School Advisor of the Year – Laura Barnas,
- Chapter Spirit & Outstanding Chapter Awards – MOT Charter High School
- Del Lumbert Service Award – Steven Vanderloo
State Officer Awards:
- Sergeant-At-Arms – Isabel Austin,
- Reporter – Noelle Snyder
- Treasurer – Mason LeNoir
- Secretary – Josh Hevelow
- Vice President – Chuiyee Kong
- President – Arnav Taduvayi
2025–26 Elected State Officer Team:
- James Carroll, Shreyas Chittimala, and Nathan Hryniewicz – Newark Charter High School
- Elisha Liu – Appoquinimink High School
- Laksh Patel – MOT Charter High School
- Zachary Barnas – Caesar Rodney High School
State Contest Results
Students earned top honors in more than 60 events, including Architectural Design, Cybersecurity, STEM Animation, Music Production, Video Game Design, Biotechnology, and more. “This conference reflects the power of Career and Technical Student Organizations to inspire leadership, creativity, and real-world application,” said Mike Fitzgerald, State Advisor for Delaware TSA. “Thanks to our sponsors and partners, students practiced career and technical skills and explored pathways that can shape their futures. These young people are the future of Delaware’s economy.”
Call to Action
The Office of Career and Technical Education and STEM Initiatives invites educators, employers, and community members to review the full list of 2025 contest winners and support the ongoing success of Career and Technical Student Organizations. Click here to access DETSA 2025 Contest Results.
About the Office of Career/Technical Education and STEM Initiatives
The Office of Career/Technical Education and STEM Initiatives, part of the Delaware Department of Education, provides leadership and support for CTE programs that prepare students for successful careers and lifelong learning. Through partnerships with schools, business, and community leaders, the office aligns education with workforce needs to promote economic growth in Delaware.
