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SCHOTT Innovation Challenge

As a specialty glass and high-tech material manufacturer, SCHOTT is a proud participant of Manufacturing Day to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in manufacturing.

At SCHOTT, we´re not just about ordinary glass

We're talking about glass that bends like magic, glass that's thinner than a strand of hair, and glass that defies the laws of physics! What can you imagine glass to do? Share your innovative ideas on how glass can improve your home or school.

What’s the challenge?

Think about something that frustrates you or others in everyday life. Maybe it’s something that wastes time, causes stress, or could be safer, cleaner, or more fun. Your challenge is to design and prototype a solution that makes life better, easier, or more sustainable.

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Your task

Invent and prototype a device, tool, or system that solves a real-world problem people face in daily life—at home, school, in the community, or in nature.

How to Submit Your Innovation

Bring your big idea to life in a video presentation. Show us the problem you’re solving, your creative solution, and why it matters.

✔ Highlight at least two STEAM elements 
✔ Share a prototype (physical, drawing, or digital)
✔ Boost your pitch with slides or visuals

Think BIG we want to see your genius in action!

Submit your innovation
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Who can join?

All students ages 13-18 with a passion for innovation. See all terms and conditions for complete eligibility criteria.


Meet the judges

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    Brianne Morgan

    Head of Engineering, R&D
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    Tim Kiger

    Head of Operations, Home Tech North America
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    Flavia Painelli

    Site Manager, Advanced Optics
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    Shawn Knowles

    New Business Development
    Adelina Wolfe, 2024 1st Place winner (Eastern Lebanon County High School)
    “Biodegradable glass,” an eco-friendly material made from biologically derived amino acids or peptides offers a decomposable solution to help reduce landfill waste and environmental impact.
    Shay Daniels, 2023 1st Place winner (Abington Heights High School)
    "Gamma-Ray Fiber Optics," a game-changing concept utilizing glass to revolutionize medical treatments by precisely targeting diseased cells with gamma rays.
    Aryana Haislip, 2024 2nd Place winner (Eastern Lebanon County High School) – “Blackening Glass Windows” for safety. 

    J’cier Santana, 2023 2nd Place winner (Worcester Technical High School) - "Automatic Window Tinter" on cars. 

    Catherine Septus, 2024 3rd Place winner (Mid Valley Secondary Center) – “Smart Glass Canopies” making cites cleaner and more sustainable.

    Thomas Burke, 2023 3rd Place winner (Abington Heights High School) – “The Ani-View” windows.

    Working at SCHOTT

    We value innovation, sustainability and our pioneering spirit - but above all we value our employees. Find out what it means to be one of us.