This summer, ATC provided scholarships for eight high school students from Green Bay West High School, Madym in Madison and the Milwaukee Academy of Science to attend the Engineering Scholars Program at Michigan Technological University’s Summer Youth Program.
During the weeklong Engineering Scholars Program, students can explore different careers in nine fields of engineering and science. Students participated in engineering sessions, group projects and special topic presentations with peers from across the country and around the world.
Students were also able to receive insight from role models that are currently working in engineering fields. During conference sessions, students investigated non-traditional applications of engineering backgrounds, turning passion into impact, sustainability initiatives, activism, learning about financial aid and professional development.
ATC Senior Vegetation Management Specialist Darren Throop spoke to the students about his high school to college transition, his career path and how he navigated it, as well as vegetation management as a career. He answered many of the students’ questions and got to know them and their future goals.
Students had the opportunity to explore engineering through hands-on, project-based learning in two fields of their choice. Group projects included water filter design, building earthquake-resistant structures, casting their own iron skillets and using 3D technology to design architectural structures.
Challenging group projects such as the Michigan Tech Unboxed™ activity allowed students to work in cross-functional teams and develop skills in communication, creative problem solving, time management and leadership. Teams also allowed students to develop interpersonal skills and enjoy outdoor activities in Michigan.
ATC connected with the students and their families prior to camp, sharing a video of the prior year’s students to give them an idea of what to expect. We also had ATC swag bags with an encouraging note waiting for them at the camp.
Student takeaways
Six of the eight ATC-sponsored students said their group projects increased their knowledge of the applications of engineering, all eight said they think they are more knowledgeable about careers in engineering after attending the program and all said they would recommend the program to others.
“Thank you for sponsoring my participation in the Michigan Tech Engineering Scholars Program,” said one attendee from Madym, “Your contribution has not only made this fantastic opportunity more achievable for me, but it has also encouraged and motivated me to follow my engineering love even more.”
Students also made a lot of new friends from different backgrounds and countries. Building that professional network is extremely important as these students grow into their future career paths. According to a post-program survey, one ATC-sponsored student said that the Summer Youth Program showed him how to be more social and allowed him to be comfortable outside his comfort zone.
Student quotes
“I am very grateful for this opportunity. It was truly a wonderful week. Thanks to the program, the experience and my new knowledge, I have a better idea of what to pursue.” – Green Bay West High School student attendee
“My stay at Michigan Tech thoroughly surprised me. The number of resources available allows for one of the best hands-on learning experiences in the country and your support allowed me to experience it.“- Milwaukee Academy of Science student attendee