HCC VAST Academy Summer Camps kick off this week
Jun 26, 2018
Houston Community College’s VAST Academy for differently-abled students is hosting two summer camps to encourage students to consider careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
HCC is one of the first colleges or universities in Texas to offer this type of summer camp, which is being funded by a $33,789 grant from the Texas Workforce Commission. The HCC TWC Explore STEM Camps are for students ages 14-22 with disabilities.
“We are thrilled and excited,” said Sue Moraska, VAST Academy program director. “This is a great opportunity for HCC and our VAST Academy to highlight STEM careers and provide hands-on experience to students with disabilities.”
The first session takes place June 25-29 at HCC Central Campus, 1301 Alabama St. and the second camp is set for July 23-27 at HCC Southwest Campus, 5601 W. Loop South. Both camps will run from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. each day.
The first camp will focus on technology, math and science, with students making use of a LEGO robotics/virtual reality lab and 3D Printer. The week will wrap up with a field trip to the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
“Students will be participating in a simulated work environment with a team as they create LEGO robots to complete specific tasks,” Moraska said. “These projects provide opportunities for students to work with and develop ideas and knowledge as well as an understanding of the world around them.”
At the West Loop camp in July, students will concentrate on technology/information technology and have the opportunity to build a computer.
“Hands-on activities, virtual reality and field trips will also be part of the camp,” Moraska said. “They will learn how to document and share their progress and final products.”
For more details, contact Barbara Fields at 713-718-5194 or via email at barbara.fields@hccs.edu.
VAST Academy provides post-secondary transition programs and comprehensive support services for students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. The academy’s goal is to provide meaningful credentials, employment and independence for differently-abled individuals. Opportunities include vocational certificates, pre-college and freshman success bridge courses, career readiness credentials, internships and employment assistance offered through an inclusive, relevant and affordable avenue.
For more information on VAST, click here.