The Illinois Technology Student Association (IL-TSA) was chartered in 1978 and is one of the oldest Career and Technical Education (CTE) student chapters in the world. Illinois TSA is a non-profit student organization devoted to teaching technology education to young people. IL-TSA's mission is to inspire its student members to prepare for careers in a technology-driven economy and culture. IL-TSA teachers strive to promote technological literacy, leadership, community and school service, and problem solving to their student membership.
Involvement in TSA benefits teachers as well. Relating class activities to local, regional, state and national competitive events can be highly motivational for students. The natural interaction between teachers and students can be utilized to develop an excellent learning climate, while working toward goals.
IL-TSA is the only CTE student organization dedicated exclusively to students enrolled in technology education classes grades K-12. At the national level, TSA is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, many state education agencies, the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the International Technology Education Association, and the National Coordinating Council of Career and Technical Student Organizations.