An Exploration Experience for Middle School Students

In collaboration with the MiSTEM's Network Greater West Michigan Region, the Seymour and Esther Padnos College of Engineering, Computing, the Women in Manufacturing Association, and the Regional Math and Science Center hosted a five-day hands-on immersive Advanced Manufacturing Camp for students entering 6 and 7th grade. Campers participated in large group activities that included team-building and design thinking processes - followed by breakout sessions facilitated by GVSU staff, students, and industry professionals from the West Michigan area. Sessions included hands-on activities such as Computer-Aided-Design (CAD), 3-D Printing, Automation, Design Thinking, and Lean Manufacturing.

Career Exploration activities included off-site industry tours to Pridgeon & Clay, DeWys, and JR Automation. The camp ended with a career fair and career pathway panel discussion with Pridgeon & Clay, Autocam, Micron Manufacturing, Gentex, Bucher Hydraulics, Amphenol Borisch Technologies, DeWys, and JR Automation.