Twenty-two middle and high school students from the Indiana Uplands unleashed their curiosity and creativity at an ROI MOMENTUM summer camp, where robotics and microelectronics (ME) took center stage. The free four-day camp was one of four ROI MOMENTUM camps hosted in July at ROI’s Microelectronics Training Hub located in the WestGate@Crane Technology Park. Camps are designed to introduce learners of all ages to robotics, microelectronics, engineering, and problem-solving. Using industry-relevant tools and equipment, campers learn about STEM concepts while exploring ME career opportunities available in the Uplands.
Using Micro:Bits and CuteBots, robotics camp participants designed, coded, and assembled physical robots—gaining firsthand experience with the technologies driving innovation in the Indiana Uplands. Challenges included transporting factory parts, delivering laboratory samples, monitoring crops, and inspecting hazardous environment. These challenges allowed students to apply engineering, coding, and problem-solving skills in creating their own robotic solutions.
The hands-on experience left a lasting impression on students. For many, the opportunity to build and program their own robots was a highlight of the week. Others enjoyed collaborating with teammates to exchange ideas and test solutions, while some took pride in developing robotic concepts they believed could help solve real industry challenges.
To cap off the experience, students traveled to Indiana University Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering on the last day for a behind-the-scenes look at learning and research spaces, including the Multidisciplinary Engineering and Sciences Hall (MESH), home to IU’s Center for Reliable and Trusted Electronics (CREATE). The campus visit quickly became another favorite part of the program, giving students a glimpse of the educational pathways and technologies shaping the future of microelectronics.
The robotics camp is part of ROI MOMENTUM’s growing portfolio of experiential learning opportunities designed to help students see themselves in future microelectronics and advanced technology careers. Through hands-on activities, students move beyond the classroom to develop skills and confidence while discovering how their interests can translate into meaningful ME career pathways.
Additional camps offered throughout the month introduced younger students to microelectronics through age-appropriate challenges and creative problem-solving activities.
Second and third graders participated in a one-day mission-based camp where teams used robotics and chip-powered tools to complete rescue and supply challenges following a simulated storm disruption. Through the activities, students explored how microelectronics support communication, navigation, sensing, and other real-world applications.
Meanwhile, fourth and fifth graders stepped into the role of junior chipmakers during a two-day microelectronics camp featuring circuits, robotics, and cleanroom-inspired experiences. Students designed, tested, and improved technologies while learning how microchips power critical systems and large-scale missions.
ROI MOMENTUM recently also offered a no-cost IPC J-STD-001 soldering certification course for participants ages 16 and older, including military members and veterans. The training provides hands-on experience and an industry-recognized credential that can help open doors to careers in microelectronics, advanced manufacturing, and related fields.
As microelectronics continues to grow across Indiana and the nation, programs like ROI MOMENTUM’s camps help students and adult learners explore career opportunities in the field while developing valuable technical skills and hands-on experience.
“One of the most rewarding parts of these camps is seeing students discover the advanced training and technologies available through our program and IU Luddy while making them aware of the career opportunities right here in the Indiana Uplands,” said Stefan Welsh, Program Director of ROI MOMENTUM.
“When students design a robot, solve a problem, or explore how microelectronics power everyday life, they’re building confidence, thinking creatively, and beginning to see themselves as future innovators, technicians, engineers, and leaders. These experiences help students understand that exciting careers in microelectronics and advanced technology are within reach, and that many of those opportunities exist not far from home, right here in the Indiana Uplands.”
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