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2026 Summer Camps

June 15-18 2026: AI Game Development + Cybersecurity

🛡️ Level 1: The AI Code Defenders
Grades: 4–5 Focus: Logic, Pattern Recognition, and Safe Coding
In this introductory quest, younger campers will discover how AI can help them build games while learning the “Rules of the Road” for the internet. We use visual programming blocks and beginner-friendly AI tools to bring ideas to life.

• Game Dev: Create a “Smart Pet” or a simple platformer using AI-assisted logic.
• Cybersecurity Focus: Understanding Digital Footprints and creating “unhackable” secret codes (Basic Cryptography).
• Key Project: Build a game where an AI guardian helps the player spot “Phishing” traps.

⚔️ Level 2: The Cyber-Sentinels
Grades: 6–7 Focus: Machine Learning Models and Network Defense
Middle schoolers step up to more complex mechanics. This level focuses on how AI can be trained to recognize threats and how to build games that are resilient against “cheats” and exploits.

• Game Dev: Design a tower defense game where the enemies adapt to your strategy using Machine Learning.
• Cybersecurity Focus: Introduction to Authentication (Passwords vs. Biometrics) and securing game data.
• Key Project: Develop a “Firewall Defender” game where students train an AI model to distinguish between “Safe Data” and “Malware” sprites.

🧠 Level 3: The Ethical Architects
Grades: 8–10 Focus: Neural Networks, Python, and Ethical Hacking

For our oldest campers, we dive into the engine room. Students will use text-based coding and advanced AI APIs to build sophisticated games while exploring the high-stakes world of professional cybersecurity.

• Game Dev: Use AI to generate dynamic dialogue or procedural worlds in Python or specialized game engines.
• Cybersecurity Focus: Ethical Hacking (finding bugs before the “bad guys” do) and protecting AI models from “Adversarial Attacks.”
• Key Project: Create a multiplayer-style environment and conduct a “Red Team vs. Blue Team” exercise to see who can bypass or bolster the game’s security.
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Camp Logistics Recap
• Dates: June 15 – 18 (Monday – Thursday)
• Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
• What to Bring: A curious mind, a packed lunch, and a refillable water bottle.
Note: All levels emphasize Digital Citizenship. We don’t just teach kids how to use tech; we teach them the responsibility that comes with it.

June 29- July 2 2026: AI ROBOTICS + SPORTS

🏎️ Level 1: The Rookie League

Grades: 4–5 Focus: Mechanical Motion and Simple Sensors

Younger engineers explore the basics of how robots move and react. We focus on the “body” of the robot—gears, wheels, and sensors—and use visual AI tools to help our robots make quick decisions on the field.

  • Robotics: Build a soccer-playing bot or a motorized “Cheer-Bot” using block-based coding.
  • Sports AI: Use camera-based AI to recognize different sports equipment (ball vs. cone) and react accordingly.
  • The Big Event: The Penalty Kick Showdown, where campers code their robots to find the goal and score against an AI-controlled goalie.

🏀 Level 2: The Pro-Circuit

Grades: 6–7 Focus: Machine Learning and Precision Control

Middle schoolers dive into the “brain” of the robot. Using machine learning models, students will train their robots to improve their performance over time, just like a pro athlete during practice.

  • Robotics: Construct a basketball-shooting arm or a high-speed racing drone.
  • Sports AI: Collect data on shooting angles and use Predictive Analytics to help the robot find the “Sweet Spot” for a perfect basket.
  • The Big Event: The Robo-Hoops Skills Challenge, a multi-stage obstacle course where robots must navigate, identify targets, and sink shots autonomously.

🏅 Level 3: The Olympic Architects

Grades: 8–10 Focus: Computer Vision and Strategy Optimization

High schoolers take on the role of both coach and lead engineer. This level focuses on complex systems where multiple AI tools work together to solve difficult athletic maneuvers and team strategies.

  • Robotics: Design a advanced “Track and Field” bot capable of multi-terrain navigation or complex object manipulation.
  • Sports AI: Implement Computer Vision (OpenCV) to track moving players and develop a “Defensive Strategy” algorithm that adapts to an opponent’s patterns.
  • The Big Event: The Iron-Bot Decathlon, a two-day tournament where campers’ robots compete in 10 different events, from sprinting to precision tossing, using advanced Python-based AI logic.

Camp Logistics Recap

  • Dates: June 29 – July 2 (Mon–Fri, 2 full weeks)
  • Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
  • Note: July 2 will feature a Grand Finale Showcase for parents to see the robots in action!
Register Here
Pay Here

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the camps course content?
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 children with financial need. In order to apply for a scholarship, send an email to cliebe@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.

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