- Generate and refine original podcast ideas
- Learn the fundamentals of strong audio storytelling
- Shape their concepts into clear, engaging formats ready for recording
- Collaborate with peers to brainstorm and strengthen their projects
- Explore effective recording techniques for high-quality sound
- Learn the basics of audio editing and post-production
- Understand how to publish and share a finished podcast
- Rebuilding and reprogramming the SMARS modular rover—installing firmware and communication pulses to reconnect with Earth.
- Restoring rover mobility by calibrating motor offsets and programming tracks designed to handle rugged Martian terrain.
- Building and launching rockets to simulate emergency supply drops.
- Integrating ultrasonic sensors and mechanical claws to detect obstacles, clear debris, and navigate craters.
- Participating in engaging space-science activities that expand their understanding of planetary exploration.
Podcast Academy: A Two-Day Experience for Aspiring Storytellers (Ages 12–17)
Wednesday and Thursday, June 9–10
10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Ready to move from podcast listener to podcast creator? Join us at Penn State Altoona for an engaging, hands-on camp designed to help you transform your ideas into polished, broadcast-ready audio. Guided by two Penn State Altoona professors with real-world experience hosting, producing, and publishing podcasts, you’ll gain both the creative and technical skills needed to bring your voice to life.
Day 1: The Art of Storytelling
Great podcasts begin with great ideas. The first day focuses on developing compelling content and learning how to communicate effectively through audio. Students will:
Day 2: The Technical Side of Podcasting
On the second day, students dive into the production process. Through guided instruction and hands-on practice, they will:
Throughout the camp, students will work together to sharpen their ideas, experiment with creative approaches, and organize their content into something audiences will truly want to hear. By the end of the experience, participants will walk away with the confidence and skills to create and share their own podcast projects.
Junior Engineering Academy (Grades 3–5)
Monday through Friday, June 8–June 12
9:00 a.m.–noon
Register for Junior Engineering Academy
The Junior Engineering Camp is designed to ignite curiosity and excitement about engineering through hands-on, project-based learning. Throughout the week, students will explore the fundamentals of design, materials, and manufacturing as they create and customize their own pinewood derby cars.
Campers will learn basic engineering principles while safely using tools and equipment to machine, shape, and refine their designs. In addition to building their cars, students will participate in other engaging STEM activities that introduce key science and technology concepts in fun, interactive ways.
The week culminates in a friendly pinewood derby race, where students test, evaluate, and celebrate their hard work. On the final day, parents are invited to attend and cheer as campers race their creations down the track.
Senior Engineering Academy (Grades 6–8)
Monday through Friday, July 20–24
9:00 a.m.–noon
Register for Senior Engineering Academy
Step into the role of a NASA engineer in this high-stakes, hands-on survival challenge! After a catastrophic event damages a Martian outpost, it’s up to you and your team to restore critical systems and get the mission back on track.
Throughout the week, students will take on real-world engineering tasks, including:
The week culminates in a Mars Track Competition, where teams put their finely tuned rovers to the test across a simulated Martian landscape. On the final day, parents are invited to attend and see firsthand what students have built, programmed, and accomplished.