San Juan College (SJC) is dedicated to fostering a college-bound culture and supporting the education and development of New Mexico students.
To this end, SJC provides free summer camps for students in grades K-12, including GenCyber, Super Summer STEM, Youth Entrepreneur, Environmental Science Engineering, and BHP Billiton Youth Camp.
GenCyber Camp: A Focus on Cybersecurity
For the fourth consecutive year, San Juan College has offered the highly popular GenCyber Camp for students who have completed grades 6-11. This camp, funded by a competitive grant from the National Security Agency (NSA), covers topics from coding to cryptography, emphasizing the importance of cyber safety and cybersecurity. This year, 106 students participated in a week of engaging, hands-on activities, including working with drones and robots.
“SJC is the only college in New Mexico funded by the NSA for GenCyber,” said Dr. Lorenzo Reyes, San Juan College Vice President for Workforce and Economic Development. “There are over 500,000 jobs available for people with cybersecurity skills. San Juan College is committed to transforming the region with programs focused on the careers of the future,” added Dr. Reyes.
Super Summer STEM Camp: Fun and Learning Combined
Through the SJC Kids Kollege program, the Super Summer STEM Camp offers high-energy, immersive STEM activities for students ages 6-11. This camp blends learning and fun in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, providing a dynamic environment for young minds to explore and discover.
Youth Entrepreneur Camp: Building Future Business Leaders
Aimed at students ages 12-17, the Youth Entrepreneur Camp provides a head start on creating and managing a business. Supported by San Juan College’s School of Energy and Center for Workforce Development, students gain valuable business knowledge, engage with mentors, and develop business plans. They also discover tools and resources to unleash their creativity and innovation.
Environmental Science Engineering for Kids: Exploring Sustainable Solutions
The Environmental Science Engineering for Kids Camp introduces students ages 5-13 to environmental science and engineering concepts. Campers spend time developing and testing solutions for alternative energy and environmental challenges, fostering a passion for sustainability and innovation.
BHP Billiton Youth Camp: A Glimpse into College Life
The BHP Billiton Youth Camp offers students who have completed 6th or 7th grade a glimpse into college life. This camp explores various trades and professions, sparking interest while engaging campers in team-based activities, leadership opportunities, and a variety of fun educational experiences.
“We understand the importance of these camps through the feedback we receive from our instructors,” said Dr. Reyes. “They consistently tell us how excited and involved the students are during these summer camps.”
“San Juan College is fully committed to youth summer camps,” added Dr. Toni Hopper Pendergrass, SJC President. “It is crucial that we take every opportunity available to engage young minds during the summer months and to inspire a lifelong love of learning. When we invest in our youth, we invest in our community.”
For more information about San Juan College summer camps, visit Kids Kollege.
