Sixteen students from Muscogee County School District are enhancing their skills in science, technology, engineering, and math at Columbus State University Coca Cola Space Science Center summer camps, thanks to a generous donation from Pratt & Whitney.
 
“We are happy to partner with Pratt & Whitney on this important program,” said Dr. Shawn Cruzen, Executive Director of the CCSSC. “We believe our core mission includes making new opportunities for local students to train for, and access, careers in science and engineering, which this effort fits perfectly.”
 
The camps - “Space Robotics” for ages 10-13 and “Drone Engineering” for ages 14-16 - provide youth with the hands-on STEM experiences to equip them with practical problem-solving skills that make them more competitive for the technical workforce. Pratt & Whitney sponsored scholarships for 16 students. Participating students were selected from local schools based on applications and teacher recommendations.
 
Held June 18-22, Space Robotics camp allowed campers to build robots using controllers, sensors, actuators, radio communications and power supplies. Drone Engineering camp, which began on Monday and continues through Friday, is an advanced camp that provides a more challenging experience for campers to learn how to design, build, and operate a quad copter using 3D designing software, 3D printers, soldering irons and more.
 
“At Pratt & Whitney, we are focused on innovation and performance - it’s how we develop, manufacture and maintain the world’s best and most advanced aircraft engines. We support programs like Space Robotics Camp and Drone Engineering Camp to help develop the next generation of STEM leaders,” Tom Bode, General Manager, Pratt & Whitney Columbus Engine Center.
 
Funding for the students’ summer camp tuition was provided as part of a larger donation from Pratt & Whitney to the CCSSC. The donation will also allow CCSSC to add a new planetarium show this fall.