College of Engineering shines a ‘L.I.T.E’ on young minds

Lamar Introduction to Engineering Camp or L.I.T.E Camp, returned this year in July with record attendance numbers.Lite Summer Camp Group

L.I.T.E Camp is a STEM summer program targeted towards rising 7th and 8th grade students, hosted by the College of Engineering, that is offered free of charge, with the generosity of returning sponsors, BASF, ExxonMobil, Motiva and TotalEnergies.

“L.I.T.E camp provides an amazing group of seventh and eighth graders the opportunity to gain knowledge in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, while also developing important skills like teamwork, creativity and determination,” ExxonMobil Beaumont Public and Government Affairs Advisor Aaron Moore said.

With hands-on experiments from engineering professionals, engaged counselors and a trip to NASA, local students were able to receive an impactful introduction to engineering.

“The BASF Beaumont site has actively engaged LITE campers in hands-on activities since 2014. Our staff enjoys sharing science and engineering with young people to inspire the next generation,” Ryan Underdown, BASF site development leader said. “This year, eight engineers and four engineering interns worked with 58 middle school students to conduct an experiment with water bottles and glow sticks to understand the effects of temperature on chemical reactions.”

The activities presented showcase the many pathways of STEM offered by the College of Engineering, where students can discover engineering in a new light. The COE looks forward to continuing to mold the engineers of tomorrow.

To learn more about engineering camps, visit www.lamar.edu/engineeringcamps.

To learn more about the College of Engineering, visit www.lamar.edu/engineering