Summer tech programs for middle-schoolers sold out; still space in new high school engineering class
What does wading through the Blue River while hunched over holding a waterproof camera have to do with computer technology? Plenty, if you’re Payton Weinman.
Weinman, 13, attended last year’s Summer Technology Institute at Colorado Mountain College in Breckenridge. The Summit Middle School student was one of 15 selected to learn about website development, digital photography, e-commerce shopping carts, Photoshop, video production and editing, and more – all while also getting outside and splashing around in the river, or taking part in team-building exercises.
“My first impression was that we’d be working inside on computers,” said Weinman. “But it’s a real hands-on experience. So, when my friend didn’t want to get in the river to shoot footage [for a video], then I did.”
Out of the three courses being offered this summer, the two middle-school level courses have sold out and are no longer taking registrations: the Summer Institute in which Weinman took part, and the Robotics and Animation Camp.
However, the First Year Engineering class (for ages 16 and above) currently has spots left. It’s a three-credit college-level course and operates like a regular CMC only it’s a shortened two-week class with applicable tuition depending on residency. It runs half days from July 28-Aug. 8. If students are under 17, they must complete the underage process to register for this class.
“It’s been really helpful to me,” said Weinman of her Summer Technology Institute experience. “What l learned last summer put me ahead at school this year.”
An offering in college-level engineering for high school students
The First Year Engineering class course for high school students signifies the program’s expansion of its curriculum by addressing science, technology, engineering and math – also known as STEM.
The course, which takes place at the end of July is for students 16 and older and is a two-week college course geared for high-level students. Students must meet all pre-registration requirements for CMC students.
This course addresses the engineering process, using a 3D modeling software called Autodesk Inventor. Project Lead the Way is a leading provider of engineering curriculum for students and also provides the basis for the course.
To help cover costs, financial support has been secured. These additional summer offerings have been made possible by a grant provided by Climax Molybdenum.
For more information about the First Year Engineering Course, which runs from July 28-Aug. 8, a three-credit college-level course, contact Robert Cartelli, Summer Technology Institute director at 453-6757, ext. 2629, summertechnologyinstitute.com