Innovate at Iowa State

Innovation Fellows in Training (I-FIT)

Your college experience in the making

Iowa State University would like to invite you and your school to join us for Innovation Fellows In Training: International Series 2025

The International Series includes a variety of workshops for students to innovate alongside Iowa State faculty and students, and participate in Iowa State’s Innovation Fellows in Training Program.

As participants, students receive an innovation certificate and t-shirt.

Past events

Innovate Smarter: Understanding People, Applying AI 

September 6-7, 2025 | Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Free for high school students – Only 75 spots available

To solve problems, don't focus on your idea

Ideas are just a small part of innovation. It starts with understanding people and problems, whether globally or in your corner of the world. In this two-day workshop you'll learn how innovators look at the world, how modern technology can help, when it can't, and how to know the difference.

What you'll do:

  • Learn how to look at problems and understand how they affect people
  • Identify challenges in your part of the world
  • Focus on the outcomes of your big ideas
  • Apply AI to better understand problems and brainstorm solutions
  • Work with a team toward a solution, iterating along the way, and present your solution

Who can attend?

High school students in 12th or 11th grade with interest in AI and technology. A conversational (intermediate) level of English is required for participation. No programming skills required.

  Design Play: Gamifying Everyday Life

June 28–29, 2025 | USA Pavilion, EXPO 2025 Osaka
Free for high school students | Only 75 spots available

What if brushing your teeth felt like beating a level?

Explore how game design can transform everyday routines into playful, problem-solving adventures. From reimagining school hallways to adding rewards to lunchboxes, you'll design and test creative ideas that make life more fun.

What you'll do:

  • Learn how design thinking and UX design shape everyday experiences
  • Map out user journeys and spot opportunities for improvement
  • Use game mechanics like points, levels, and challenges to drive ideas
  • Build and test prototypes using real-world feedback
  • Work with other creative students and expert mentors

Who can attend?

Senior high school students in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade with interests in: game design, graphic design, industrial design, interior design, architecture, art, and other areas in design.

Healthy Animals – Happier World

January 11-12, 2025 | Dwight School Seoul
Free for high school students | Only 75 spots available

What if the key to a healthier planet started at the microscopic level?

Dive into the biology behind animal health, ecosystems, and the hidden forces that shape life. From cells to systems, you’ll explore how small changes can have a big impact—and work alongside fellow students to imagine a more sustainable, compassionate future for all living beings.

What you'll do:

  • Explore how microscopic biological activity influences health and the environment
  • Examine real-world challenges in veterinary medicine and animal science
  • Collaborate on ideas that support animal welfare, public health, and global sustainability
  • Share insights and learn from expert mentors in biology, medicine, and life sciences
  • Develop innovative solutions and present your ideas for feedback

Who can attend? 

High school students in their final two years with interests in: animal health, biology, medicine, genetics, neuroscience, nutrition, biotechnology, sustainability, ecosystems, and any other area of life science.

See innovation in action

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I-FIT Mongolia

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Innovation Fellows in Training (I-FIT) Challenge: Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan

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Osaka (EXPO 2025)

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Seoul

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Ho Chi Minh City

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Kuala Lumpur

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Sao Paulo

View past challenges