The annual National Summer Transportation Institute (NSTI) 4-H camp for students entering seventh through ninth grades continues to accept applications for the June 15-26 camp hosted by West Virginia State University (WVSU) Extension Service.  During the free day camp at the University’s Institute campus, students connect their passion for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) with planes, trains, automobiles and other modes of transportation.

“With one in seven jobs in the United States being in the transportation industry, this camp is a great way for our youth to learn about career opportunities in a fun, exciting and educational format,” WVSU STEM Education Coordinator Jaime Adkins said. “They’ll experience firsthand what make these industries work and visit sites to see what life is like on the job.”

Students who enjoy solving problems and who excel in science and math may be well suited for a career in transportation, Adkins said. Participants will hear from industry leaders in water, air, rail and highway transportation and conduct hands-on engineering experiments that show the science of transportation in action.

Additionally, youth will visit locations to see firsthand what a career in transportation involves. While site locations are still being finalized for this year, past camps have included visits to railroads, dams, airports and bridge construction sites. Educational opportunities are supplemented with recreation activities that promote healthy living.

The day camp will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Registration is required and space is limited. For an application, visit wvstateu.edu/4H or contact Jaime Adkins at (304) 204-4001 or jadkins24@wvstateu.edu.

WVSU Extension Service partners with the West Virginia Division of Transportation and the U.S. Dept. of Transportation’s Federal Highways Administration to host NSTI.