Texas Border Business
By Joey Gomez
McALLEN, Texas – South Texas College is set to welcome middle school and high school students this summer with a series of free Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) camps designed to spark curiosity and introduce participants to high-demand career fields.
Beginning in July, the college’s Continuing Education and Workforce Development department will offer a weeklong slate of activities in Biology, Cybersecurity and Welding camps made possible through a grant from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).
The camps are open to eligible incoming sixth-12th-grade students throughout the Rio Grande Valley.
The initiative is intended to give students an engaging introduction to STEM careers while removing financial barriers for families, according to STC Continuing Education Program Developer and summer camps Coordinator Xenia Munoz.
Munoz said by exposing students to fields such as Biology, Cybersecurity and Welding through interactive experiences, STC continues its commitment to strengthening the future workforce while encouraging the next generation of students to pursue STEM careers.
“We are offering four different camps: Biology Explorers, Biology Technology, Cyber Patriot-Cybersecurity as well as introductory and advanced welding,” she said. “As long as students meet the eligibility requirements, the camps are completely free, and all materials and supplies are provided.”
Each camp lasts one week and features hands-on activities led by instructors in specialized learning environments. While many sessions will take place at STC’s Pecan Campus in McAllen, additional camps will be held at the Mid-Valley and Starr County campuses to provide greater access for students across the region.
The camps are open to the public, allowing families from communities throughout the Valley to participate. Students must meet grant eligibility requirements. Eligibility is verified through the student’s school district during the application process.
Munoz said the camps are designed to make STEM education both exciting and approachable while helping students discover academic and career interests at an early age.
“It is a good opportunity for students to explore the STEM field,” she said. “These camps are fun and engaging, with a lot of activities. It is a priority for us to offer this to our communities.”
The first camp, Biology Explorers, begins Monday, June 29 at STC’s Pecan Campus, with additional camps beginning and running throughout the month of July.
For more information about STEM summer camps, visit www.southtexascollege.edu/youth-camps/index.html.
Information source: STC
