Illinois Valley Community College’s series of summer Career Exploration Camps introduces teens to agriculture, automotive technology, nursing, cybersecurity, and other careers. The programs expose teens ages 13-17 to careers in various fields. IVCC faculty members guide students through projects and activities using professional techniques and tools in IVCC’s state-of-the-art labs. Essential career skills are incorporated into the lessons.
The career camps are:
GROW, the Ag Technology and Plant Cultivation Teen Academy, explores how precision ag technology is reshaping modern agriculture practices before digging into plant cultivation fundamentals. Students will create herb gardens while understanding nutrient requirements and the science and benefits of pruning and trimming.
GRIP, the IVCC STEM Academy, is jam-packed with science, technology, engineering and math activities. They begin with electronics, mastering schematics reading before assembling and soldering a Bluetooth speaker. Then, they move to computer-aided design, modeling, and printing 3-D designs. On Day 2, they explore automotive maintenance and gas engine theory and participate in a racing pit crew tire change competition. On Day 3, campers learn CNC milling machine theory, programming, tooling, and machine setup. On Day 4, students design and build air-powered rockets after being introduced to fluid power and hydraulic and pneumatic systems. The class wraps with a field trip to a local manufacturer.
CYBER! NET EXPLORERS teaches how to shield private information on phones, computers, gaming systems, explore computer servers and drone operation, build systems, and participate in game competitions.
SCRUBS introduces dental health, nursing, and emergency medical services using state-of-the-art simulators at IVCC’s labs. On Day 1, students explore different dental careers and practice using clinical tools. On Day 2, campers move to the nursing simulation lab, where they practice using a stethoscope, get familiar with vital signs, medications, and patient needs, and master the art of documenting patient histories. On Day 3, campers learn lifesaving techniques used by Emergency Medical Service providers, where they’ll practice CPR, splinting and bandaging, and assessing vital signs. They put their new skills into action in a mock emergency using IVCC’s ambulance simulator.
IVCC’s junior welding camp, SPARK, is also popular and seats filled up quickly for this summer’s sessions.
>> Learn more about the camps
