Key Takeaways
- Two summer High School Electronics Camps will be held in June 2026 for students in grades 9‑12.
- The camps are a joint effort of the Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development, Ohio State University Mansfield, and the 179th Cyberspace Wing.
- An Electronics for Beginners session runs June 8‑11, while an Electronics for Intermediate Users session runs June 15‑18, both from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.
- Participants engage in hands‑on projects, learn about electronic components and circuitry, and develop problem‑solving and critical‑thinking skills.
- The camps also expose students to career pathways in electronics, manufacturing, engineering, cybersecurity, and related technical fields.
- Registration is limited; early application is encouraged, and interested students should submit an application describing their interest and planned use of the skills gained.
- For questions, contact Angie Cirone at the Richland Area Chamber via email ([email protected]) or phone (419‑522‑3211).
Program Overview and Sponsorship
The High School Electronics Camps are being offered through a collaborative partnership that brings together community, academic, and military expertise. The Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development provides local outreach and logistical support, ensuring the camps are accessible to Mansfield‑area families. The Ohio State University at Mansfield contributes instructional resources, faculty insight, and access to university‑level labs and equipment. The 179th Cyberspace Wing adds a real‑world perspective on how electronics underpin modern cybersecurity and defense operations. This tri‑sector collaboration aims to give students a well‑rounded view of both civilian and technical‑military applications of electronics.
Target Audience and Eligibility
Designed specifically for high school students in grades 9 through 12, the camps welcome learners at varying stages of experience. Whether a student has never wired a circuit or has already completed introductory electronics coursework, there is a session tailored to their background. By opening the program to all high schoolers, the organizers hope to spark interest among a broad demographic, including those who may not have previously considered a STEM‑focused future. The inclusive approach also encourages peer learning, as more experienced participants can assist newcomers during collaborative projects.
Dates, Times, and Structure
The beginner‑level camp will take place Monday, June 8 through Thursday, June 11, 2026, with daily sessions running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The intermediate‑level camp follows a similar schedule, occurring Monday, June 15 through Thursday, June 18, 2026. Each day blends short instructional segments with extended periods of hands‑on activity, allowing students to absorb concepts and immediately apply them in practical exercises. The consistent timing across both camps makes it easier for families to plan transportation and for students to maintain a routine reminiscent of a school day, albeit focused on experiential learning.
Electronics for Beginners – Content and Goals
The Electronics for Beginners camp targets students with little to no prior exposure to electronics. Throughout the four‑day program, participants will explore fundamental concepts such as voltage, current, resistance, and the basic functions of components like resistors, capacitors, LEDs, and microcontrollers. Guided projects will include building simple circuits on breadboards, creating light‑sensing devices, and programming basic microcontroller boards to control outputs. The primary goal is to demystify how everyday electronic devices work and to inspire confidence in students’ ability to troubleshoot and construct simple systems.
Electronics for Intermediate Users – Content and Goals
Students who already grasp basic electronics—or who have completed the beginner camp—will find the Intermediate Users session appropriately challenging. This camp delves deeper into topics such as analog versus digital signals, sensor integration, and introductory printed circuit board (PCB) design. Participants will engage in more complex projects, such as designing a small autonomous robot, constructing a wireless communication link, or developing a basic data‑logging system. By building on foundational knowledge, the intermediate camp aims to strengthen analytical skills, encourage iterative design thinking, and prepare learners for more advanced coursework or extracurricular tech clubs.
Skill Development Beyond Technical Knowledge
While the camps emphasize concrete electronics skills, they also prioritize the cultivation of broader competencies highly valued in today’s workforce. Problem‑solving is exercised as students encounter unexpected circuit behaviors and must diagnose issues using multimeters, oscilloscopes, or logical reasoning. Critical thinking is fostered through design challenges that require trade‑offs between cost, performance, and manufacturability. Collaboration is encouraged as students work in pairs or small teams, learning to communicate technical ideas clearly and to give and receive constructive feedback. These soft‑skill experiences are intended to complement the technical learning and enhance overall college and career readiness.
Career Exploration and Industry Connections
A distinctive feature of the camps is their explicit focus on career pathways. Throughout each session, facilitators highlight how electronics knowledge applies to fields such as advanced manufacturing, robotics, aerospace, medical device development, and cybersecurity. Guest speakers from local industries or the 179th Cyberspace Wing may provide insights into day‑to‑day responsibilities, required qualifications, and emerging trends. By linking hands‑on activities to real‑world job functions, the camps help students envision potential futures and make informed decisions about high school coursework, college majors, or technical certifications.
Registration Process and Application Expectations
Interested students are asked to complete an application that outlines their motivation for attending the camp and describes how they intend to apply the knowledge and skills gained. This reflective component assists organizers in gauging genuine interest and tailoring instruction to participants’ goals. Because space is limited to ensure an optimal instructor‑to‑student ratio, early submission is strongly advised. Applicants will receive confirmation details, including exact campus location, any required safety gear, and a brief agenda for each day.
Contact Information and Further Details
For any questions regarding the camps—whether about curriculum, logistics, or eligibility—prospective attendees or their parents should reach out to Angie Cirone, Director of the Mansfield‑Richland Area Educational Foundation. She can be contacted via email at [email protected] or by phone at 419‑522‑3211. Additional information, including a downloadable flyer and a link to the Chamber’s registration portal, is available on the Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development website. Early engagement with these resources will help ensure a smooth enrollment process and allow families to plan for a rewarding summer of technological discovery.