DISCOVER | EXPLORE | CREATE

Fall 2025 Programs

DECTech is designed to foster interest and curiosity in STEAM subjects through engaging, hands-on, and creative experiences that spark a lifelong love of learning. All students who support this mission are eligible to sign up for our programming.

Please contact stem-tech@mines.edu with any questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the camps course content?

Our camp’s course content is uniquely crafted each session by our dedicated student leaders, ensuring a fresh and engaging learning experience for every camp they are enrolled in.

What happens after I register?

We will be in contact with you the week before the program begins with more logistical information such as session placement and classroom location. There is a high probability that your daughter will be placed in her first session choice; thus, once you register, mark your calendar!

How do I apply for a scholarship?

Thanks to several companies that partner with the CS Department at Mines, we are able to offer funding for those on the free/reduced lunch program. If budget allows, we will also provide scholarships to other girls with financial need. In order to apply for a scholarship, send an email to saraujo@mines.edu including the following information:

Scan or photo of free/reduced lunch acceptance letter
If NOT on free/reduced lunch program:
Child’s Name, Child’s Grade, Child’s School
Amount of Funding Ram, short description of demonstrated need (e.g. unemployment, single parent, extenuating circumstances)

If we have scholarship funds available, we are happy to grant aid, and will respond via email accordingly.

How do I drop off/pick up my son/daughter?

A: Drop-off and pick-up will be on the North end of the CT parking lot. This lot is located on the North side of 18th, between Cheyenne and Arapahoe Streets. Parents/guardians may pull through at the curb (do not park at the curb) on the North end of the lot and drop children off, or park in the CT lot, briefly, and walk to the drop off point. Participants will be marked “present” on the attendance roster and given a name tag by Program staff.

Link to CT Google Maps Lot: http://tinyurl.com/CTLMparkingLot
Link to Mines Campus: https://tour.mines.edu/map/
CT is next to the CTLM building (#18 on the map)

Pick up and Drop off Time will be sent out via email and can also be accessed on the “Camp Info” webpage.

Am I allowed to sit in on classes?

Often the rooms we use will not have space for parents to sit in. If you feel sitting in would help your daughter be more comfortable, then email stem-tech@mines.edu and we will try to make arrangements.

What if my son/daughter is sick and misses a class?

We cover the same content in different sessions all week; if space exists, your daughter is welcome to do a make-up class that week (e.g. normally she attends on Tuesdays, but will attend on Wednesday this week). Send email to stem-tech@mines.edu to request a make-up day.

Should I notify anyone if my son/daughter will miss a day in advanced?

If you are able to do a make-up on another day that week, then email stem-tech@mines.edu and request a make-up day. (See previous question/answer for more details.)

Can my son/daughter be placed with his/her friend from school?

We make every effort to honor these requests.

Who are EXPLORING TECH teachers and how are they chosen?

All EXPLORING TECH teachers are current Mines students who love engaging the next generation in science and engineering projects. They are chosen through an application/interview process, and then hired after a background check is done.

What is the teacher/child ratio?

Each class will have either up to 15 students (with 2 teachers) or up to 20 students (with 3 teachers).

My son/daughter has medical issues. Can he/she still participate?

Please email stem-tech@mines.edu with details. We are happy to work with you and make appropriate accommodations.

How will I be notified if a class is cancelled due to weather?

As long as Mines does not cancel class, the class will not be cancelled. If Mines closes, an email will be sent to all parents.

When is the program swag distributed?

DECTech swag is included in the program fee and will be distributed the first or second day of class. If you child misses class or registers late, contact stem-tech@mines.edu to arrange for pick up. If an additional t-shirt is purchased, it can also be picked up on the first day of class, or, picked up by arrangement with program staff.