Joe’s story is one of passion, perseverance and giving back. From an enthusiastic young student participating in Invention Convention to becoming a seasoned engineer at Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, Joe’s journey is a testament to the power of an early introduction to invention education and the importance of fostering the next generation of innovators. Today, he remains deeply connected to the program, inspiring students as a judge and mentor, ensuring that the cycle of innovation continues.
The Spark of Innovation
Joe’s invention journey began nearly three decades ago in elementary school, where Invention Convention was incorporated into the classroom curriculum. From kindergarten through fifth grade, he put his creativity to the test, refining problem-solving skills that would one day define his career.
One of Joe’s standout inventions was a spring-mounted mailbox, inspired by a family experience when a snowplow knocked their mailbox down. Through an iterative process, he experimented with different springs until he found the perfect balance of flexibility and stability. Another memorable invention stemmed from his struggle as a left-handed student; he created a hand-supporting device with spherical bearings that allowed left-handed writers to glide across paper without smudging ink.
Although his inventions didn’t win the top prize, Joe valued the lessons learned through failure. “Being able to not only succeed but also fail was important. It teaches resilience and the importance of iteration, a crucial skill in engineering and in life,” he reflects.
A Career in Engineering and a Commitment to Giving Back
Joe’s participation in Invention Convention — not to mention having a father in the field — sparked a lifelong interest in engineering. He pursued his degree at the University of Connecticut, where he became actively involved in outreach programs promoting STEM education.
Today, as a Compression Systems Engineer at RTX’s Pratt & Whitney, Joe continues to contribute to the field, working on both commercial and military programs. But his connection to Invention Convention didn’t end with childhood. Recognizing the impact the program had on his own life, Joe became a dedicated volunteer, serving as a judge at both the state and national levels. His involvement extends beyond just evaluating projects; he actively mentors students, fostering a sense of camaraderie and encouraging them to embrace both success and setbacks as part of the learning process.
Encouraging the Next Generation of Innovators
Joe believes strongly in the power of mentorship and representation in STEM. “I’ve seen firsthand the tangible impact this program has on young minds. It’s fulfilling to be able to guide and inspire students in the same way I was once encouraged,” he says. He ensures that students appreciate not just the competition, but also the people who help them along the way — parents, teachers, and mentors who provide support and opportunities.
In his role as a judge, Joe emphasizes the importance of community. “I always encourage students to engage with each other, ask questions and share their experiences. Innovation isn’t a solo mission; it thrives in collaboration.”
The Role of RTX and Industry Support
As a longtime and deeply engaged supporter of the Invention Convention Worldwide program, RTX plays a crucial role in promoting innovation education and workforce development. Joe sees this partnership as mutually beneficial: the program nurtures the problem-solving and critical-thinking skills that companies like RTX value in their employees.
“For me, staying involved with Invention Convention strengthens my connection to RTX. It fosters pride in the company’s commitment to STEM outreach and reinforces my own passion for innovation,” Joe explains. “It also creates a sense of continuity. If we invest in young minds today, they could be the engineers and leaders of tomorrow.”
A Call to Action for Alumni
Joe’s advice to fellow Invention Convention alumni is simple: stay involved. “The program doesn’t just benefit students — it benefits us as professionals, too. Engaging with young innovators reignites our own creativity and reminds us why we pursued engineering in the first place.”
For those who may have drifted away from the program, Joe suggests finding ways to reconnect, whether through mentoring, judging or simply sharing their own experiences. “You never know the impact you might have on a young inventor’s life.”
Joe Amat’s journey is a shining example of how early exposure to invention education, coupled with a spirit of giving back, can shape a fulfilling career and inspire future generations. His story is proof that when we invest in innovation and mentorship, we keep the cycle of progress alive.
Bringing Young Innovators Together
Winning inventors and entrepreneurs are invited to compete at these prestigious, high-profile annual events.
Competitions