High school students earn college credit at Cuesta College camp
Twenty-five students completed four-day renewable energy program
– Twenty-five local high school students earned college credit while exploring renewable energy technologies, environmental science, and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics career pathways during Cuesta College’s Renewable Energy STEM Camp, held June 22-25 at Arroyo Grande High School.
Now in its third year, the four-day camp has become an official offering connected to Cuesta College’s PSCI 220: Energy, Electricity, and Environment course. Students who participated earned college credit while gaining hands-on experience with energy concepts and technologies.
The camp was offered through a partnership among Cuesta College, NextEra Energy Resources, and the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education.
“This renewable energy STEM camp is an excellent example of the kind of high-impact learning experience that can emerge from strong dual enrollment and public-private partnerships,” said Assistant Superintendent and Vice President of Instruction Dr. Jason Curtis. “Students are earning college credit while engaging with complex scientific and environmental issues, gaining hands-on experience, and beginning to see the academic and career pathways available to them.”
“NextEra Energy Resources is proud to support this camp because it gives students meaningful opportunities to explore how energy is generated, managed, and delivered, while connecting what they learn in the classroom to potential career pathways,” said Jim Auld, manager of external training initiatives at NextEra Energy Resources. “By working with Cuesta College and local educators, we’re able to bring industry perspective into the classroom and help students better understand the opportunities available in the future of energy.”
During the week, students participated in interactive lessons and activities focused on energy systems, environmental challenges, and energy production technologies.
Students learned the fundamentals of solar energy systems, including how solar power grids are designed and how solar panels are aligned to maximize energy production. They also designed and tested turbine blades during a wind tunnel engineering challenge, applying scientific concepts to maximize energy generation.
The camp reached full enrollment with 25 students. According to organizers, participation has increased since the program began three years ago.
Organizers said the program connects classroom concepts with real-world applications while introducing students to careers in renewable energy and environmental sustainability. They also said the camp serves as a model for future science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programs in San Luis Obispo County, with plans to expand similar opportunities for high school students.
More information about Cuesta College is available at cuesta.edu.
