TryEngineering Summer Institute

An exciting ten day, on-campus engineering camp for high school students held at premier universities across the United States.

TryEngineering at the University of Pennsylvania

 

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

Session 1: June 29th - July 7th

Session 2: July 11th - July 19th

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 disciplines, 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.


Mechanical Engineering

Get ready to unleash your inner inventor and explore the amazing world of mechanical engineering!

This module includes building a powerful robot arm, fueled by the fundamentals of hydraulics! We'll guide you through the basics of mechanical engineering, and in no time, you'll be controlling your very own wired creation!

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! Through hands-on activities and engaging projects, you'll explore core mechanical engineering concepts. 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 project will help you understand 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!

Our 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 bridge building with our module on civil engineering? We have the perfect challenge waiting to ignite your curiosity and unleash your creative problem-solving skills.

Our 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, see all our exciting projects, and find out which skills you'll master this summer. The TryEngineering Summer Institute offers more than you can imagine – don't miss out!

Curriculum Overview

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 for the next generation of problem-solvers and difference-makers. You will also get the opportunity 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 got to see firsthand the creation of legendary aircraft like the CH-47 Chinook and V-22 Osprey. Those students got the opportunity to walk alongside the engineers who design and built amazing engineering feats.

We have also taken students on a private tour of Philadelphia International Airport where students got to see up close into the CDG Project, a civil and mechanical engineering masterpiece. Students were able to witness the groundbreaking Ramp Power Tower in action. Imagine commanding aircraft movements from 20 stories above!

Contact us to find out where we plan on taking our students at the University of Pennsylvania this year.

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 your future. In just nine days, you will discover the real-world impact of engineering, from tackling complex challenges to creating innovative solutions. We'll equip students 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, develop critical skills, and forge lifelong friendships with like-minded peers.


Meet A Graduate

 

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?! 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!

Register Now!

 

Have Questions? We have Answers!

TryEngineering FAQs

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.

2025 Camp Dates & Locations

Engineering camp for high school students at USD is fun and educational.


University of San Diego

San Diego, California

 

Session 1
June 11th -June 19th

Session 2
June 24th - July 2nd

Engineering camp for high school students at Rice University.


Rice University

Houston, Texas

 

Session 1
June 29th - July 7th

Session 2
July 11th - July 19th


Columbia University

New York, New York

 

Session 1
July 12th - July 20th

Session 2
July 24th - August 1st


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