Local Scouts work with a volunteer to adjust a compressed air t-shirt cannon at the STEM Camporee.
Scouts at the STEM Camporee try out virtual reality headsets provided by the Air Force Research Labs.
(Rome, NY – May 2015) The local Boy Scout Council recently held its annual Spring Camporee at Griffiss Business and Technology Park. The three-day event offered Scouts hands-on training and unique learning opportunities across a broad range of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) disciplines. More than 350 Scouts, leaders and volunteers participated.
The Revolutionary Trails Council partnered with Indium Corporation and several local technology companies and educational institutions to provide hands-on STEM activities in a number of stations. Scouts were able to:
- Use and learn about virtual reality headsets, provided by the Air Force Research Labs.
- Watch a demonstration by the First Robotics Challenge Team from SUNY Polytechnic.
- Tour Mohawk Valley Community College’s Air Power and Frame facility.
- Explore how a Van de Graaff generator generates electrostatic electricity.
- Launch rockets provided by the Syracuse Rocket Club.
- See how a steam engine works, provided by Cazenovia College.
- Use survey equipment under the guidance of the NYS Department of Transportation Survey Team.
- Build their own electroscopes, electromagnetic motors, fly drones, assemble their own computers and much more.
Steven McEwan, Scout Executive for the Revolutionary Trails Council, was pleased with the event and the role of STEM programming in Scouting: “STEM has become an integral part of Scouting. In addition to traditional outdoor and leadership skills, the Boy Scouts of America understands that a working knowledge and awareness of technology will help Scouts become more effective leaders. For example, we still teach map and compass, but in today’s environment, understanding how to use GPS is equally important.”
Thanks to Griffiss Local Development Corporation and the Oneida County Industrial Development Agency, over 25 different Scout units were able to use the grounds, camp overnight and experience this first-of-its-kind STEM Camporee.
“This event was a huge success and the kids loved it,” said McEwan. “We are continuing to seek out and develop new programs in technology and trades to give our Scouts the skills they need to be prepared for the future.”