Teens Dive into Aerospace and AI at IEEE TryEngineering Camp

The IEEE TryEngineering Summer Institute has successfully concluded its annual program, engaging 311 students aged 13 to 17 in an immersive exploration of engineering disciplines, including aerospace and artificial intelligence. Held across five prominent U.S. universities, the nine-day camp offered a blend of hands-on activities, mentorship, and field trips, enabling participants to develop practical skills and forge lasting friendships.

Launched in 2018, the Summer Institute aims to provide a fun and educational experience for young aspiring engineers. This year’s sessions took place at the University of Pennsylvania, Rice University, University of San Diego, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Columbia University. The program continues to grow, from its inaugural participation of over 80 students to 311 this year.

Engaging Activities Across Campuses

At the University of Pennsylvania, students explored the historical and cultural aspects of engineering. They visited the Franklin Institute, where an IEEE volunteer explained various technologies. Participants also learned from engineers at the Philadelphia International Airport about maintaining operations at one of the busiest airports in the U.S. A representative from Salesforce highlighted the importance of creative problem-solving in technology.

Hands-on sessions allowed participants to engage with microcontrollers, merging programming skills with electrical engineering. “I enjoyed the microcontroller lessons the most,” one participant remarked, emphasizing teamwork in creating innovative projects.

At Rice University, students tackled engineering challenges by designing bridges and gliders. Teams built structures from balsa wood, testing their strength, while glider designs showcased aerodynamic principles. A visit to NASA’s Johnson Space Center was a highlight, where students met former astronauts and learned about rocket engineering.

The University of San Diego offered similar opportunities, with students building gliders and addressing the “toxic popcorn challenge,” which involved designing a safe removal process for harmful kernels. A tour of Qualcomm headquarters deepened their understanding of tech applications in engineering.

Leadership and Mentorship Opportunities

In New York City, the camp at Columbia University included leadership sessions facilitated by the National Student Leadership Conference. Participants visited Joint Base McGuire-Dix Lakehurst, where U.S. Air Force and Marine personnel introduced them to advanced rescue technologies, including helicopters and drones. The students also enjoyed cultural excursions to the American Museum of Natural History and Times Square.

At the Georgia Institute of Technology, a total of 20 students participated at no cost, thanks to various sponsors, including the Georgia Space Grant Consortium and IEEE Technical Activities. Participants designed and tested robotic boats tasked with delivering humanitarian aid, guided by mentors from Georgia Tech. This hands-on experience emphasized critical thinking and team collaboration.

Throughout the program, students engaged in the “sparking solutions” group activity, identifying real-world engineering problems and proposing innovative solutions. Teams presented their projects to volunteer judges from the IEEE Educational Activities committee, who evaluated them based on criteria such as demand, design, and presentation effectiveness.

Scholarships supported by various IEEE societies enabled students to attend the program, enhancing access to engineering education. One scholarship recipient reflected, “After my wonderful experience at the IEEE TryEngineering Summer Institute, I am sure that this will be the right career path for me.” Another added, “Thanks to the program, I am better educated in the field as a whole.”

The TryEngineering Summer Institute continues to shape future innovators and leaders, fostering a passion for engineering among young participants while providing invaluable experiences and knowledge.