Heat oven to 350°F and arrange rack in the middle. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside. Combine flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a medium bowl and whisk to break up any lumps.
Combine vegetable shortening and sugars in a bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Cream them on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 4 minutes. Add eggs and vanilla and beat until incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary. Stop machine, add flour mixture, then beat on low speed until incorporated, dough will be stiff. Mix in the chocolate chips.
Form into 2-inch round balls and place on prepared baking sheets. Bake until just set, about 13 minutes. They will firm up as they cool. Allow them to cool on baking sheets before removing.