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The Texas Academy at ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University, in collaboration with several prominent sponsors, recently hosted the Innovation ColLABoration camp, an initiative designed to ignite a passion for STEM careers among Texas youth. The camp, part of the Governor’s Summer Merit Program administered by the Texas Workforce Commission, aimed to introduce students to a variety of high-demand, high-skill industries. 

Sponsored by Southeast Texas Workforce Solutions, Texas Workforce Commission, ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University's College of Arts and Sciences and College of Engineering, and the Reaud Honors College, the camp provided students aged 13 and older with a rich and varied educational experience. Participants explored six key industry clusters: advanced technologies and manufacturing, aerospace and defense, biotechnology and life sciences, information and computer technology, petroleum refining and chemical products, and energy.

“The Innovation ColLABoration experience was an outstanding opportunity for young minds in our community to come together and learn STEM academic and career pathways embedded within authentic learning environments here on campus,” Dean of the Reaud Honors College Dr. Tilisa Thibodeaux said.

Throughout the week, students engaged in diverse lab rotations that immersed them in various STEM disciplines. They delved into science by learning how to check drinking water quality, exploring DNA, creating ice cream through chemistry, and synthesizing dyes. Career opportunities presentations by the Texas Workforce Commission, the Center for Midstream Management and Science, and Centers for Advances in Port Management, complemented these activities, adding a practical aspect to their learning experience.

Robotics was another highlight, with students building BaseBots, upgrading to ClawBots, competing in robot competitions, and repairing robots. A session at the Midstream Center provided a real-world application of their skills, making the subject even more engaging. Engineering projects included working with circuits, experimenting with non-Newtonian fluids, applying engineering principles in the kitchen, and understanding refinery control centers and port management, offering students a glimpse into various engineering fields.

Math activities engaged students in innovative ways, involving games like Nim and impartial games, exploring deep mathematical concepts, and creating hyperbolic space using crochet. Discussions on careers in STEM and business, particularly in aerospace, helped students see the practical implications of their math skills.

A mix of historical context and team-building fun was provided by a field trip to the Spindletop and the Beaumont Escape Room, culminating in a mega relay, an awards ceremony, and presentations by the Reaud Honors College and Texas Academy. These activities celebrated the students' achievements and reinforced the week's learning experiences.

Dr. Tilisa Thibodeaux has played a pivotal role in these initiatives, securing nearly $100,000 in funding from the Texas Workforce Commission to conduct these cutting-edge summer camps for students interested in STEM disciplines. Her efforts have significantly contributed to providing these valuable educational opportunities.

In addition to the camp activities, students had the opportunity to participate in a STEM-based research study. The study aimed to increase familiarity with postsecondary educational opportunities leading to STEM careers and foster collaboration among Texas workforce development programs, vocational rehabilitation, colleges, universities, and high schools.

“We are grateful for the incredible community and industry partnerships that supported us and enabled us to bring learning to life for our youth – we couldn’t have asked for better partners in our community and we thank them for their commitment to the Texas Academy and ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University,” Thibodeaux said.

If your student is interested in participating in the 2025 camp, fill out the interest form .