Camp Killowatt offers youth studies in alternative energy
By Phyllis Moore
Published in News on June 19, 2011 1:50 AM
Camp Killowatt, a summer day camp for middle and high school students interested in alternative energy, will again be offered at Wayne Community College, thanks in part to a $15,000 grant from the Progress Energy Foundation.
The program is designed to pique students' interest in science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM, and targets alternative energy as it relates to production and methods of generating electricity.
It also affords the opportunity to increase interest in developing skills and competencies demanded by the energy industry, and serves as a recruiting tool to those STEM areas.
"The camp is a way for young people to explore the world of applied technologies and is a great opportunity for showcasing programs where graduates can obtain high-paying careers with a two-year degree," said Angela Wall, Camp Kilowatt director.
During the camp, which will be held July 18-21 on the WCC campus, students participate individually and in teams, in hands-on activities. Opportunities will include building wind turbines, solar-powered boats and cars, hydrogen fuel cell cars and sterling engines. Students will also be able to observe machining processes, rapid prototyping and specialty automotive equipment.
Progress Energy Foundation will invest more than $400,000 in the Carolinas this year to support energy education and workforce development in public schools. The grant to WCC was one of several awarded to programs that focus on expanding student and teacher knowledge about energy issues, including alternative energy.
Middle and high school students interested in green technology and energy efficiency are encouraged to attend the camp. Registration fees are $75, which includes a T-shirt and lunch each day. To register, call 739-6818, email awall@waynecc.edu or visit www.waynecc.edu/camp-kilowatt.