Chattanooga State Community College announced generous donations from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and Fujifilms Hunt Chemicals U.S.A., Inc. in support of the Summer Camps at the College’s Dayton site at 200 4th Avenue in the Skills Center.
TVA provided the overall funding for the camps that emphasize skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Camps scheduled throughout the month of June include Lego Robotic, Wetland and Watershed Basics, and Green Energy.
“TVA’s generous contribution allows us to reach a younger audience, which leads to the development of skills and interest in science, technology, engineering and math through a fun yet challenging learning environment here at Chattanooga State,” said Harry Hawkins, Chattanooga State manager of technical training for Corporate Training, Workforce Development and Continuing Education.
Fujifilms Hunt Chemicals U.S.A., Inc. purchased a Lego Robotics kit that will not only be used during summer camps, it will be available throughout the year for use by local school teachers at Chattanooga State’s Dayton site.
According to Tim McGhee, Chattanooga State’s dean of Engineering Technology, “Youth camps focused on STEM concepts expose participants to engineering in a fun and interactive setting. It is hoped that these types of camps will inspire participants to pursue a technical career.” The Division of Engineering Technology offers degrees in four areas of study that specifically target the needs of TVA: non-destructive testing technology, nuclear power engineering technology, quality assurance/quality control technology, and radiation protection.
Nancy Mitchell, TVA; Linda Miller, Human Resources, Fuji Films/Chemicals; Rhea County Executive George Thacker; Dayton City Manager Frank Welch; Vaughn Berger, president, Dayton Chamber of Commerce, and John Payne, director, Rhea County Economic and Tourism Council attended the press conference where the announcement was made.