Impactful Sustainable Transportation Summer Camps for Middle School Students

Abstract: The need to cultivate interest in transportation and sustainability among young students is vital for building a skilled, environmentally conscious workforce. However, K-12 programs that foster early engagement in these fields at a foundational level are not abundant. The Fresno State Transportation Institute (FSTI) addresses this gap by offering innovative K-12 Summer Camps designed to inspire and educate middle school students about careers in transportation and sustainability. FSTI developed a robust framework of activities for its Transportation Industry Summer Academy, and Bike Camp, each providing students with foundational knowledge, hands-on skills, and a deeper understanding of transportation’s role in sustainable development. The primary objective of these camps is to foster early interest in transportation and STEM fields through academic sessions paired with practical, real-world experiences. The Transportation Industry Summer Academy introduces students to various transportation career paths, equipping them with problem-solving skills and industry insights through professional mentorship. Students explore the broader societal impact of sustainable solutions by applying STEM concepts to transportation-focused projects. The Bike Camp complements this by emphasizing the environmental benefits of cycling and teaching bike safety and maintenance. Engaging activities, such as 3D printing, exploring local bike trails, encourage teamwork and appreciation for sustainable mobility. We conducted pre- and post-assessments to understand students’ initial knowledge, enthusiasm for transportation careers, and understanding of sustainability principles. Post-assessment data revealed notable increases in both enthusiasm and knowledge, indicating the camps’ effectiveness in enhancing students’ understanding and interest in the field. Results showed significant positive changes in student knowledge and enthusiasm, with technical sessions expanding STEM skills, fieldwork fostering real-world problem-solving abilities, and team-building activities enhancing communication and collaboration. The hands-on fieldwork allowed students to apply classroom concepts in practical settings, while team activities strengthened their ability to work together towards common goals in transportation challenges. These findings should prove valuable for any program interested in having positive impacts on fostering a new generation excited about sustainable transportation, contributing meaningfully to the transportation sector and society by developing future professionals equipped to advance sustainability.