July 2, 2009

Not your typical summer camp, the Skilled Training Education Partnership Program or STEP, has become a small town success story.  The technology summer camp runs for a week in July and features inspiring and exciting opportunities for youth between the ages of 11 -14 to explore the wonders of technology.  Program Coordinator Tim Martens had tomorrow’s workforce in mind when he started the camp in 2004:  “The whole initiative was brought about by the need to introduce youth to technology at a younger age,” explains Martens.

The camp provides hands on experience in areas that may help decide an area of interest for future community businesses.  Kids can explore various technical fields, while having fun and learning at the same time.  Everyday is something new with activities such as wood projects, a glider challenge, can crusher build, automotive and lawn mower service and pop bottle rockets.  Clear favourite amoung the kids were the rockets and building cars powered by CO2.  Camper Jock Looby claimed, “I think this week was one of the best weeks I had this summer, and I would like to come back again..”

The STEP Program is organized through partnership with the Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board, the Bruce, Grey, Huron, Perth, Georgian Triangle Training Board and the Ontario Association of Community Futures Development Corporations.  Due to the support received for the program, which currently has two locations, one in Stratford and one in Clinton, students can expect to see an expanded program with more openings and a wider curriculum next summer.

Contact:  Tim Martens
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