From June 23–27, the Brain Autonomy and Resiliency (BAR) Lab was buzzing with energy as we hosted two exciting camps as part of the Skyhawk Discovery Camp. This weeklong STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) adventure welcomed rising 6th to 8th grade students, blending hands-on learning with exploration at both the University of Tennessee at Martin and Discovery Park of America.
Through partnership with Discovery Park, students spent the week engaging in dynamic, future-focused experiences — and our BAR Lab camps were a major highlight!
BEAM BUSTERS: THE STRENGTH CHALLENGE
Young engineers put their critical thinking to the test as they explored the strength and flexibility of different materials. In this hands-on structural challenge, students hung weights from beams and measured how much they bent, learning how engineers make design decisions. Could they predict which beam would hold up best under pressure? With each experiment, they discovered the science behind strength and stability.
MISSION: AUTONOMOUS – PROGRAM YOUR SELF-DRIVING ROBOT
Campers stepped into the world of robotics and autonomous vehicles by coding their own self-driving robots. With sensors, logic, and a bit of trial and error, students learned how smart programming helps robots navigate obstacle courses and reach their destinations — just like real autonomous vehicles. It was a fun-filled crash course in coding, problem-solving, and futuristic tech.
These two-hour sessions sparked curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every participant. Watching young minds light up as they solved real-world engineering problems and programmed robots was a reminder of why STEAM education matters.
We’re proud to support the next generation of thinkers, tinkerers, and tech trailblazers. The future looks bright and autonomous!
