By Hazel Scott/ASU
Alabama State University’s Department of Engineering welcomed aspiring engineers from across Alabama this summer through three STEM outreach programs designed to introduce students to engineering, technology and innovation through hands-on learning and real-world experiences.
The summer programs included the STEM Summer Camp, held June 7–11 for high school students; theBlast Off to STEM Discovery Camp, held June 15–18 for rising 7th- and 8th-grade students; and the Engineering Summer Bridge Program,held July 5–17 for incoming ASU engineering students.
Throughout the programs, participants engaged in robotics, engineering design challenges, problem-solving activities, and collaborative projects while working with ASU faculty, staff, and student mentors.
“The experiences were designed to strengthen technical skills while helping students better understand the educational and career opportunities available in STEM fields,” said Dr. Derrick Dean, chair of the Department of Engineering and professor of Biomedical Engineering.
A highlight of the Engineering Summer Bridge Program was a visit to the Honda Alabama Auto Plant, where students observed advanced manufacturing processes and learned about robotics, automation, and quality-control systems. The experience provided students with firsthand insight into how engineering principles are applied in a modern industrial environment.
Middle school participants traveled to the McWane Science Center in Birmingham, where interactive exhibits reinforced science and engineering concepts through hands-on exploration. High school students visited the Robotics Laboratory at Auburn University, where they were introduced to state-of-the-art robotics systems, automation, and autonomous technologies and had opportunities to interact with engineering researchers.
“The goal of these programs is to expose students to the exciting possibilities that engineering offers while helping them build confidence in their ability to succeed in STEM,” said Dean. “By combining hands-on activities with visits to industry and research facilities, students gain a deeper understanding of how engineering improves lives and drives innovation.”
The summer programs, Dean said, reflect Alabama State University’s commitment to expanding access to STEM education, inspiring the next generation of engineers, and strengthening Alabama’s workforce pipeline.
Dean noted that by connecting classroom concepts with industry and research experiences, the programs gave students opportunities to explore potential careers and develop skills that can support their future academic and professional success.
“Participants concluded the summer with new technical skills, increased confidence, lasting friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the role engineers play in solving problems and improving communities,” Dean summarized.
The Department of Engineering, Dean emphasized, is looking forward to welcoming another group of future innovators to its STEM programs next summer.
For information on STEM Summer programs, call 334-604-9314 or email ddean@alasu.edu.