Teens experiment with computer programming, electronics at Cyber Innovation Camp

COLLEGE STATION — Hands-on training in programming, electronics and sensors, engineering design and cybersecurity helped prepare 21 high school students for careers in computing, engineering and cybersecurity.
The five-day 2019 Cyber Innovation Camp, held June 10-14, introduced teens to the computing and cybersecurity industry, and students received their own Raspberry Pi computer kit, along with sensors and electronics they could take home with them. The teens learned the Python programming language and used it to program their Raspberry Pi to control lights and robotic cars, create music, detect and monitor motion or temperature. They even trained a camera for facial recognition.
The camp, which was conducted by the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX), included guided lessons and learning activities led by IT professionals and software engineers. TEEX full-time staff involved in the camp included: John Romero, John Walters, Brenda Grays, Carla Collins and Camp Coordinator Diane Cornwell. Guest speakers included Devalle Clay, Bryce Dorwart, Rachel Martin, Jeff Saputra and Tyler Burwitz.

Students were encouraged to explore and experiment with sensors and electronics and think outside the box to apply these technologies, said Cornwell, who is a Cybersecurity Training Coordinator with TEEX Knowledge Engineering Division. Cornwell says the goal of these camps is to give young people the tools they need to solve problems and change the world.
TEEX, ViaSat and the Texas A&M Cybersecurity Center provided scholarships and funding support for the camp. A second Cyber Innovation Camp is being held June 24-28, 2019.

About TEEX

The Texas A&M
Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) is an internationally recognized leader in
the delivery of emergency response, homeland security and workforce training,
exercises, technical assistance, and economic development. A member of
The Texas A&M University System, TEEX served more than 194,000 people from
across the United States and 81 countries last year through hands-on training
and technical services.