The program expands the survey approach to provide a more in-depth experience for high school age women within a thematic framework. The camp is conducted over a 5-day period, and individual topics will be explored for one or more days with a compendium scheduled for the last day.

TOPICS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

How safe is nuclear energy? 

• The students will be asked to research the risks associated with electric power generation from nuclear power plants versus fossil-fuel power generation. Specific issues to be addressed include the impact of power plant emissions on human health and the environment; the management of nuclear waste, the potential impact of earthquakes, hurricanes and other natural and man-made catastrophes  on nuclear power plants. Hands-on activities may include work at the Missouri S&T reactor and/or the Weldon Springs Superfund site. Faculty from geological engineering, environmental engineering, nuclear engineering, ceramic engineering, mining engineering, and petroleum engineering will participate.

Water and the family. 

• The students will address water and wastewater-related issues in a multi-disciplinary approach. Students will review research regarding gender roles and domestic water use in the United States and Guatemala. Students will learn about the human side of engineering by developing and administering water use surveys. Faculty from geological engineering, environmental engineering, biology, psychology, and economics will be invited to participate.

Greenhouse gas mitigation. 

• Global warming is a hot button topic with young women today. Students will learn about electrical power generation and distribution from electrical engineering and mechanical engineering faculty and evaluating solar and wind energy production from geological engineering faculty. Other topics could include fuel cell technology from materials engineering faculty. Hands-on activities include collecting solar and wind data, measuring generator output in the electrical engineering laboratory, solar house-based activities, and a field trip to Harry S. Truman Dam and Reservoir to learn about a federal hydroelectric project.

Electricity and the home. 

• Students will learn about the American family's reliance on safe and dependable domestic electrical systems and appliances for family health and comfort. For example, how does a refrigerator function and how is that functionality important to a family's health? How do modern electronics improve health care in the U.S.? Faculty from electrical, mechanical and computer engineering may be involved with this topic.

Compendium

• The last day of the camp will include a compendium where individual campers or small groups of campers will make presentations on individual topics of interest. The focus will be to provide the students with a head start on future term papers or university application essays.