The First Annual Summer Energy Camp 2024, hosted from June 3rd to 5th at Hinds Community College’s (Hinds CC) Vicksburg campus, was a resounding success. Organized in collaboration with the Vicksburg Warren School District, this innovative event gave students invaluable opportunities to learn from industry professionals and explore the energy sector firsthand.
The Energy Academy Pathway, funded by Entergy MS and the MS Development Authority, aims to introduce students to the energy industry and address the sector's shrinking workforce. Londra Hunter, Academy Business Liaison & Coordinator, spearheaded the camp's creation, development, and direction, targeting rising freshmen through senior high school students.
Throughout the camp, students engaged with a diverse array of expert professionals:
James Ross, Hinds CC Electro-Mechanical Program guided students in using Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD), industrial robots, and various measurement tools. Students also toured the Fab Lab, which features a CNC Router and offers the public access to design and production resources.
Mr. Dameion Brown, Director of Information Security & Chief Information Security Officer at JSU, educated students on cybersecurity, the importance of hard work, the value triangle, ransomware threats, and securing home internet networks.
Mrs. Samantha Lucker, Geologist, and Mr. Mohammed, Geotechnical Engineering, ERDC, discussed surface erosion and its impact on levees, conducting soil experiments and teaching about soil compaction and energy sources like the Rhizosphere.
Corey Durham, MCITy’s Hinds Workforce Innovation Center Director, introduced students to cybersecurity, animation, 3D modeling, gaming, AI, and various other programs. The center provides customized learning opportunities for individuals aged 10 and up.
James Warren, MSU’s Engineering and Additive Manufacturing Research Department, taught students the design process for creating windmills, focusing on producing and measuring kilowatt energy.
Mrs. Vivian Bailey, Alcorn State University’s Extension, Vicksburg Office, emphasized the importance of good nutrition for maintaining energy, advising students to cook at home and reduce sugar consumption.
Mrs. Bethany Ferrall, Transfer Company VR, introduced students to Career Prep Virtual Reality (VR), allowing them to explore various careers through immersive virtual experiences.
Thomas Carson, President, and Mrs. Jenny Drake, Vice President of NAMI: National Association on Mental Illness, provided informational handouts on mental health awareness and stability at the camp’s closing Student/Parent Showcase on June 5th.
Dr. Sherry Surrette, County Agent, MSU Extension Office of Raymond, offered Home Energy Efficiency kits and information on sustainability programs to participants during the showcase.
The camp included students Keimiah Minor, Jadan Robinson, Gage Wigley, Jaylon Winters, and Abron Brown. The camp concluded with a Student/Parent Showcase on June 5th, highlighting the students' achievements and providing resources for ongoing learning and development in the energy sector.