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Workforce Development

Building the Workforce of Tomorrow

The RECF is committed to strengthening workforce development by connecting students with clear pathways into advanced manufacturing and related careers. Through hands-on STEM programs, we help close critical skills gaps, support lifelong career growth, and equip future professionals to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. By showcasing the innovation and opportunity within factory automation and modern manufacturing, the RECF is transforming perceptions and preparing the workforce of tomorrow.

Students work with machinery

Workforce Development

VEX Factory Automation Competition

The VEX Factory Automation Competition is a classroom-based competition that provides students with essential and desirable foundational skills needed for today's advanced manufacturing careers. Students progress from education to workforce and beyond by engaging in hands-on curriculum using the VEX V5 Workcell.
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Industry Certifications

The RECF provides industry certifications for schools, students in engineering related programs, and robotics clubs. These certifications were designed by a team of accomplished professionals composed of engineers, college professors, and high school teachers.
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Students work together in a workshop

SkillsUSA

SkillsUSA is the #1 workforce development organization for students. We empower students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders and responsible community members.
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International Robotics Honor Society

Students with exceptional academic standing have the opportunity to apply for membership in a local chapter of the International Robotics Honor Society (IRHS) to earn nationally recognized graduation honors for their participation in a host of high school robotics competitions.
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Events
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2025-2026 Signature Event Updates

  1. An Event Partner wanting to apply to host a Signature Event must have hosted events for at least 2 seasons prior to applying. 
  2. Signature Events must use the officially branded award banners for the Excellence Award and Tournament/Teamwork Champions Award.
  3. When hanging field skirts the VEX Robotics logo/brand name can not be covered up on the competition fields.
  4. VEX V5 Robotics Competition Signature Events may have regional capacity and max per organization restrictions lifted 8 weeks before the event if the event is not full (similar to the process already in place for VEX IQ Robotics Competition Signature Events).
  5. Minimum pit size reduced to 8’x 8’ instead of 10’x10’.
  6. Beginning in the 2025-2026 season, the REC Foundation will collect $10 instead of $5 per team registration on all Signature Events. This is to help offset travel costs for REC Foundation staff to support these larger events.

2025-2026 Signature Event Application Reminders

  1. Existing Signature Events only need to complete the Final Application (due by March 31, 2025)
  2. New Signature Event concepts will need to complete the Initial Proposal by January 31, 2025 and if approved, complete the Final Application by March 31, 2025.
Crowd watches the Signature Event in Minnesota's Mall of America
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