![Campers working during camp](../../../electrical/_files/_images/_content-images/ECEN-news-ieee-tryengineering-30Aug2019.jpg)
Students from around the state of Texas and the world gathered on the campus of Texas A&M University this summer for the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) TryEngineering Summer Institute, hosted by the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. The camp is structured with two, two-week camp sessions that allow students to experience life on a college campus and see what electrical and computer engineering and Texas A&M Engineering have to offer.
The camps focus on STEM-related coursework and provide opportunities to experience hands-on design challenges and projects, learn firsthand from experts in the field, form friendships with other students and get a behind-the-scenes look at innovative engineering environments such as the Zachry Engineering Education Complex.
TryEngineering Summer Institute students not only enjoy the impressive facilities on campus, they are also near the heart of the United States’ space program, and past students have enjoyed visits to NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
Fifty-two students attended both sessions hosted at Texas A&M this summer. One camper said, "I enjoyed the summer institute because it gave me a great experience, and I enjoyed the lessons and activities provided throughout my time at camp. It showed how college life was and really got me brainstorming about what I would like to do In the future."
“It has been wonderful having the IEEE TryEngineering Summer Institute on campus this summer. Seeing the campers’ excitement and interest in working on, completing projects and learning engineering concepts makes us excited for the future and for what these young people will contribute to the engineering community,” said Windy Lala, electrical and computer engineering undergraduate advisor.
Several IEEE professionals attended the speaker and panel sessions, in addition to current NASA engineers. This is the second summer that the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering has hosted TryEngineering. The University of California, Riverside hosts the California camp and Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology hosts the New York camp.
The goal of the TryEngineering Summer Institute is to spark enthusiasm in engineering and technology in the next generation of problem solvers and difference makers, and position these innovators for long-term success in academics and in life. TryEngineering Summer Institute is a partnership between IEEE and Branded Camp Services.