TryEngineering Summer Institute
The goal of our engineering camp is to spark enthusiasm in engineering and technology in the next generation of problem-solvers and difference-makers, and position these innovators for long-term success in academics and in life.
2025 Engineering Program Dates Coming Soon
Both sessions were sold out in 2024
Learn about our Engineering Summer Program
Does your teenager have a curious mind and a knack for figuring things out? Do they love building, tinkering, and taking things apart to see how they work? If so, the TryEngineering Summer Institute's engineering summer program could be the perfect summer adventure for them!
Designed for students between the ages of 13 and 17, this immersive summer program offers a unique opportunity to explore the exciting world of engineering firsthand. Through hands-on projects, interactive workshops, and behind-the-scenes tours, your teen will gain practical experience, discover diverse engineering fields, and meet inspiring professionals shaping the future.
This is more than just an engineering summer camp; it's a journey of discovery that could spark a lifelong passion for engineering and innovation. Don't let your teen's curiosity go to waste. Unleash their inner engineer and sign them up for the TryEngineering Summer Institute today!
Take a quick look at some of our engineering camp modules and projects, then look at our full summer program curriculum to see if this is right for you
Electrical Engineering
Ever wonder how your phone lights up at the touch of a button, or how the radio fills your room with music? If you're fascinated by the magic of electricity, then our summer engineering camp's electrical engineering module is for you!
This electrifying program will take you on a hands-on journey through the fundamentals of circuit building, soldering techniques, and even the construction of your very own AM radio! Unleash your inner inventor and explore the power of engineering to shape the world around you.
Looking to launch your engineering journey this summer? Dive into the exciting world of robotics, coding, and problem-solving with immersive summer engineering programs designed specifically for high school students.
Mechanical Engineering
Get ready to unleash your inner inventor and explore the amazing world of mechanical engineering at our 2024 engineering summer program!
This module includes building a powerful robot arm, fueled by the fundamentals of hydraulics! We'll guide you through the basics of robotics, and in no time, you'll be controlling your very own wired creation, witnessing the possibilities of mechanical engineering firsthand.
The mechanical engineering module doesn't stop with building, it includes a fun competition to see who has the best engineering skills. We put your newfound skills to the test in our ultimate dice stacking showdown. Can your team collaborate and use your mechanical engineering knowledge to build the tallest tower possible?
Ignite your passion for innovation this summer with our action-packed engineering camp for high school students! Our mechanical engineering module delves into the exciting world of machines. Through hands-on activities and engaging projects, you'll explore core mechanical engineering concepts like forces, motion, and material properties. Our camp is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to transform your ideas into reality, making it the perfect choice for students interested in engineering careers or simply wanting a fun and enriching summer experience.
Aerospace Engineering
Gear up to soar into the world of aerospace engineering with this module of our engineering camp.
First we will teach you the science behind aircrafts, how to analyze materials, shapes, and structures. This lesson will unlock the key principles that make flight possible. With your newfound knowledge we will split you up into teams to build the ultimate glider. The team that is able to build a glider which can carry the payload of a shoebox the furthest wins!
You will soar to new heights this summer with our exhilarating aerospace engineering camp for high school students! This engineering program takes you on a thrilling journey into the world of flight. This engineering summer camp is the perfect launchpad for students passionate about aviation, space exploration, or simply seeking a summer adventure filled with discovery and innovation.
Civil Engineering
Ready to explore the world of architecture with our module on civil engineering?
Look no further than our engineering summer camp! We have the perfect challenge waiting to ignite your curiosity and unleash your creative problem-solving skills.
This civil engineering module is not just about bricks and mortar, it's about both collaboration and problem-solving! Join your fellow engineering students to build, and test bridges. Which ever team is able to build the bridge that can handle the heaviest load will win a pizza party!
Explore the Full Engineering Summer Program
Ready to dive deeper? Unleash the full scope of your engineering potential! Click below to explore our full engineering summer program curriculum. Discover every module, conquer exciting challenges, and gain a roadmap to the skills you'll master this summer. The TryEngineering Summer Institute offers more than you can imagine – don't miss out!
Our Campus at the University of Pennsylvania
Hosted at one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country, our engineering summer camp hopes to to spark enthusiasm in engineering and technology in the next generation of problem-solvers and difference-makers. While allowing them to explore one of the most storied cities in the United States. Learn more about the campus, the dorms, and the field trips for our summer engineering program students at the University of Pennsylvania.
The Campus
The University of Pennsylvania, fondly known as Penn, is the home of our summer engineering camp! Founded by Benjamin Franklin himself in 1740, it's not only one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States, but also a vibrant urban campus buzzing with innovation and cutting-edge research. Not only will students get to experience college life on Penn's beautiful campus they will get the opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Philadelphia. There is nothing better for a budding engineer to spend part of their summer inside the University of Pennsylvania's School of Engineering!
The Dorms
Get ready to experience college life at the University of Pennsylvania this summer! You'll be staying in the same residence halls as Penn students, offering a unique glimpse into college life. Our dorms are staffed by Penn Security 24/7 so you don't have anything to worry about while you are staying on campus. The buildings are full of amenities like lounges with TVs, laundry facilities, and lightning-fast Wi-Fi. Plus, you can unwind in the dedicated game room, complete with a pool table and foosball – perfect for friendly competition after a day of camp.
To ensure a comfortable environment, you'll be matched with roommates based on your age and interests. Staff members will also live on each floor, offering supervision and guidance. So pack your bags, future engineers, and get ready for an unforgettable summer experience in the heart of Penn's campus! These dorms aren't just a place to sleep – they're your launching pad for an epic summer adventure!
The Field Trips
Our engineering summer program doesn't just stay within the classroom walls at the University of Pennsylvania. Students will also get the opportunity to Prepare to see real-world engineering marvels during our exciting field trips! During years past we have taken our engineering students to Boeing's campus at Ridley Park, where students get to see firsthand the creation of legendary aircraft like the CH-47 Chinook and V-22 Osprey. They will also get to Walk alongside the engineers who design and build these marvels, asking questions and gaining insights into their lives as full time engineers.
We have also taken students on a private tour of Philadelphia International Airport where students get to see up close into the CDG Project, a civil and mechanical engineering masterpiece, and witness the groundbreaking Ramp Power Tower in action. Imagine commanding aircraft movements from 20 stories above!
Still Not Sure if Our Engineering Camp is Right for You?
Our camp is more than just an engineering summer program, it's a launchpad for their future. In just nine days, they'll discover the real-world impact of engineering, from tackling complex challenges to creating innovative solutions. We'll equip them with the skills and enthusiasm to excel in academics, prepare them for exciting career paths, and empower them to become the problem-solvers and difference-makers of tomorrow. All while they build confidence, developing critical skills, and forge lifelong friendships with like-minded peers who share their excitement.
Ready to Have the Summer of a Lifetime
If you think the TryEngineering Summer institute is right for you then what are you waiting for?! If building robots, 3D printing, and shaping the future sounds exciting, what are you waiting for? Spots at our engineering camp are in high-demand and registrations fill up fast – last year, we had more than one location sell out before summer began! Set your child on a path to endless possibilities. Register now and join the TryEngineering Summer Institute adventure!
Have Questions? We have Answers!
TryEngineering FAQs
We are committed to offering the TryEngineering Summer Institute community with an educational experience of the highest quality, while maintaining a safe, healthy and respectful environment. Conduct that threatens the health or safety of any person, or that poses a threat of causing damage to the Institute, campus or community, will not be excused from the program if need be. The Institute has a “Zero Tolerance” policy with regard to alcohol, illegal drugs, theft, lewd or indecent behavior, sexual, racial or personal harassment or intolerance, or causing damage to the facilities, tools, rooms etc.. Participants are subject to discipline, up to and including dismissal, for conduct in violation of these terms.
Student safety is our top priority! Throughout the day, students are offered a variety of supervised activities tailored to their interests and energy levels. Residence halls are staffed with live-in staff including the Program Director, the Program Health Director, and Resident Assistants who provide 24-hour supervision. Staff members are also always present on off-campus excursions. With an experienced, highly trained staff and the support if needed from on-campus college security, we provide the necessary supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
Roommates are matched by age and by using the information provided in the roommate section of the application. Students are housed in residence halls, and organized and separated by self-described gender and age. Staff members will live on each floor to provide constant supervision and direction.
Yes! International students visiting the United States to attend the TryEngineering Summer Institute do not need anything other than a tourist visa. Neither an F-1 nor an M-1 visa is required. Visas can be obtained from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the student’s home country. We do not offer assistance in obtaining the visa or with entry into the United States. We can however provide a letter confirming a student’s participation in the program if needed. Students can be picked up at the airport using our optional drop-off/pick-up service.
Please call or email us with any questions: +1 315-816-4023 / info@tryengineeringinstitute.org
Pickup: Parents will receive a phone call the night before the student’s flight to confirm all information. Parents will also receive an email with the name and photo of the person conducting the pick-up, so students will know who to look for. Staff members will be waiting just past security in a TryEngineering Summer Institute t-shirt with a sign containing the student’s name and the Summer Institute logo. Parents will receive a call as soon as the student pick-up is complete. Assistance is provided with baggage pick-up and loading items into a professionally driven transport. Students are then personally escorted directly to the residence hall.
Drop off: Students are transported from the dorm with ample time before their flight departure. Students will receive assistance with check-in and baggage drop-off, and are escorted to security. Please ensure any baggage fees are prepaid prior to check-in. One staff member remains at the airport until all flights have departed, so if a flight is cancelled, someone is available to offer students assistance with re-booking or even returning to the dorm as necessary.
Please call +1 315-816-4023 with any questions about the flight pick-up and drop-off service. International students may find it easier to email us at info@tryengineeringinstitute.org
Yes! We accept both commuter students and residential students. Commuter/day students have the convenience of living at home while residential students enjoy the complete university experience. Either way you are on the road to become an engineer!
Yes. All of our host sites are familiar with students who have food allergies and can make arrangements for this. We take this very seriously. Please let us know in advance if students have any food allergies or restrictions and we will work with you and dining services to make arrangements based on your needs. Vegetarian options will also be available at every meal.
Final payment is due May 15th, 2024. Join us to see if you would like to become an engineer! Registrations after this date must be paid in full.
Yes! There are a limited number of need-based scholarships available to legal residents of the USA. There are full tuition and partial tuition scholarships available to those who meet the criteria. To see the full list of information and to apply, please visit our scholarship page.
If you don't see your question above feel free to reach out! You can Contact us via our online form, email us at info@tryengineeringinstitute.org or call +1 315-816-4023.
Learn About UPenn Summer Camps
We recommend our engineering camp at the University of Pennsylvania, but there are many other options for summer camps at the University of Pennsylvania. You can learn more about all the offerings available here, but first you should consider all that the TryEngineering Summer Institute has to offer this summer.
This summer, gain a competitive edge and delve into exciting academic pursuits at the prestigious University of Pennsylvania. A University of Pennsylvania summer programs can offer a diverse range of courses and programs for high school students, all housed on the vibrant university campus in Philadelphia.
2024 Camp Dates & Locations
Houston, Texas
Session 1: June 30, 2024 - July 8, 2024
Session 2: July 11, 2024 - July 19, 2024
San Diego, California
Session 1: June 30, 2024 - July 8, 2024
Session 2: July 11, 2024 - July 19, 2024