2026 Theme: Decorative Accent Lamp

Students are asked to design and cast a decorative and functional accent lamp. 

WINNER RECEIVES $2,500
All Entries Receive Individual ICI Membership for a YEAR
and FULL ACCESS to the Technical Conference & Expo!

​The Investment Casting Institute announced the first Annual University Casting Contest in 2024.  The contest provides industry students with a platform to showcase their knowledge of investment casting.  Students are also encouraged to seek out industry partners to further boost their exposure to industry practices.

The University Casting Contest Eligibility for Submission
The casting contest is open to all North American University and College Students. Confirmation of student status may be required at the time of submission.

Contest Rules
  • The object must be investment cast.
  • Designs must meet the size requirements and may not exceed them.
  • Design and construction details must be documented:
    • Inspiration for design
    • Which of the optional specifications you are aiming to meet
    • Method of original/pattern and shell manufacture employed
    • Alloy type
    • Post casting operations including finishing and fine finishing if any
    • Weight of the finished product and final dimensions
  • Students are encouraged to collaborate with industry partners.
    • Industry partners are to be identified; detailing support provided
    • Industry partners must be members of the ICI or SFSA
  • Contest entry forms must be submitted to the ICI no later than July 1, 2026.
  • Finished castings may be either hand carried or shipped to the event. Shipping details vary per year and will be provided to casting contest entrants after entry.

Judging
​Final objects will be judged on the following basis:
  • Aesthetics
  • Functionality
  • Comfort/ergonomics
  • Creativity

Judges are chosen by the Investing in the Future Committee. If the IITFC is disbanded, then the judges should be invited from member foundries and suppliers. If the judges are unable to attend the judging in person, they may judge based on photos and documentation.
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NOTE: To maintain fairness in the judging process, committee members or potential judges who are industry partners of a contest entrant may not participate in judging.     

University Casting Contest Entry Form 2026

To enter a casting in this year's University Casting Contest, please complete the entry form, including the described summary detailed on the form, and any design sketches or photos to the Investment Casting Institute by July 1st.  Finished casting entries need to be received by September 1st.

Winner will be announced at the Annual Technical Conference and on display at the Expo.