The American Industrial Arts Student Association was originally established by a dedicated group of industrial arts teachers with the primary objective of providing a platform to acknowledge and celebrate the accomplishments of their students. After being officially supported by the American Industrial Arts Association for a significant period, the organization transitioned into an independent, non-profit corporation in the year 1978. A pivotal moment arrived in 1988 when the name was thoughtfully altered to the Technology Student Association, reflecting the dynamic and evolving technological landscape that students are now immersed in and learning about. Membership within the association provides students with valuable opportunities to gauge their technological competencies through a range of competitive events, spanning from local initiatives to regional, state, and even national competitions. As the organization expanded its reach and grew to encompass over 10,000 members within the state of Pennsylvania, it became increasingly evident that a more robust support system was needed to nurture and encourage students who aspire to pursue careers within the diverse field of technology. Consequently, in the year 2002, the Pennsylvania Technology Student Association and Foundation, Incorporated ("PA-TSA, Inc.") was formally established and incorporated as a not-for-profit organization within Pennsylvania, solidifying its commitment to supporting the next generation of technological leaders.
In recent years, PA-TSA, Inc. has strategically refocused its efforts, placing renewed emphasis on the vital work undertaken by the Foundation. To this end, a comprehensive donation policy and organizational structure have been meticulously developed. These initiatives are specifically designed to assist in subsidizing conference attendance for PA-TSA students, as well as providing valuable post-secondary scholarships to deserving student members. The overarching mission of PA-TSA, Inc. is to foster holistic personal growth, cultivate strong leadership skills, and actively create opportunities for individuals to excel in the dynamic realms of technology, innovation, design, and engineering. Members are actively encouraged to apply and seamlessly integrate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics ("STEM") concepts into their lives through a variety of engaging co-curricular activities, competitive events, and related educational programs.
Currently, the Foundation is actively soliciting contributions and support from a diverse array of individuals and forward-thinking companies, particularly those operating within relevant technological fields where our students compete, participate, and aspire to build their careers. We firmly believe that exposing students to the pioneering companies that form the backbone of STEM fields within Pennsylvania is of paramount importance for their future success and overall development.
PA-TSA, Inc. operates as a non-profit organization, holding 501(c)(3) incorporated association status, which allows donors the benefit of deducting their generous contributions for federal income tax purposes. For your convenience, checks can be made payable and mailed to the following address:
PA-TSA, Inc
75 Acomo Drive
Dillsburg, PA 17019
With warm regards,
Michael Flowers
mflowers@patsa.org
PA-TSA Foundation Treasurer