By Blake Jackson
Fourteen high school students recently participated in Lincoln University of Missouri’s (LU) federally funded STEAM summer camp, held from July 6-12.
The weeklong program introduced students to science, technology, engineering, agriculture and mathematics while highlighting how these fields work together to solve real-world challenges.
Supported by NASA’s Minority University Research and Education Project and USDA NIFA’s NextGen Program, the free camp encouraged students to explore emerging technologies and consider future opportunities in STEAM-related education and careers.
“We focus on areas including big data science, machine learning, AI, GIS and drones, as well as digital agriculture through technologies such as sensors, weather stations and robotics,” said John Yang, Ph.D., professor of environmental science with LU Cooperative Research.
Yang, who has directed the camp since 2023, said the program plays an important role in preparing students for growing workforce demands in technology-driven industries.
The University of Missouri (MU) collaborated with LU during the camp by hosting activities at its Columbia campus and providing faculty-led instruction in digital agriculture and data science. Students also participated in hands-on experiences at LU’s Jefferson City campus and Busby Farm, focusing on geospatial science and drone technology.
Participants included students from across Missouri, along with Maya Cardona, a rising senior from the School for Advanced Studies in Miami, Florida. Interested in NASA, agriculture and environmental science, Cardona found the program online and decided to attend.
“It’s been amazing, and honestly, I feel like I’ve been learning a lot,” Cardona said. “Everything has been completely new, which is kind of surprising because I am a STEM person.”
Her favorite activity involved building soil sensors and using them to track moisture levels, showing how technology can improve agricultural research.
Khira Ricks, a Kansas City high school student, highlighted the robotics activities as her favorite part of the camp because of her interest in technology.
Throughout the week, students also developed career skills through résumé workshops, interview preparation and college guidance sessions. They visited research facilities, museums and science centers, including NASA- and USDA-related sites.
Saaruj Khadka, Ph.D., an LU research scientist who coordinates the camp, said drone activities received the most enthusiasm from participants.
“It was a full schedule, but the students loved it,” Khadka said. “So much of it was really new for them.”
Photo Credit: gettyimages-seregalsv
Categories: Missouri, Education