Future Engineers Build, Code, and Innovate at Walla Walla Robotics Camp
The halls of innovation were buzzing with activity last summer as over 30 middle school students from Walla Walla Public Schools participated in a no-cost Robotics Summer Camp held from June 9 to 13, 2025. The intensive five-day enrichment program, open to middle school students, fully immerses participants in hands-on activities centered around STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).
The camp’s core focus was robotics, offering students a unique opportunity to design and construct physical objects while exploring various engineering and programming concepts. Participants were given access to a wide array of resources, including structural materials, craft supplies, electronics, and a range of hand and electric tools, such as soldering irons and hot glue guns. A strong emphasis was placed on encouraging free experimentation alongside learning safe hand tool usage.
"It was incredible to see their ideas come to life," said camp co-organizer Kerry Delfino." We wanted to foster collaboration, build their confidence, and sharpen their problem-solving and critical thinking skills.”
Fellow camp organizer Mike Bertram added, “The projects they completed are a testament to their creativity and dedication
From Kittens to Slot Machines
The resulting creations were as diverse as the students themselves. Many worked together to craft motorized contraptions such as robot kittens, cars, snakes, Minecraft characters, and military tanks. Other students focused on integrating programming and circuitry to build interactive devices, including puzzle boxes with custom lights and sound effects.
One project, in particular, stood out for its complexity and ambition: a fully functional slot machine. The student-built device featured a working handle that moved up and down, spinning wheels, and integrated lights and sounds, showcasing an advanced understanding of mechanics and electronics for their age group.
Family Open House Showcases New Skills
The week of innovation concluded on Friday with a Family Open House, where students proudly presented their creations. Families and friends were invited to see the operational robots, puzzle boxes, and electronic projects, giving students a chance to demonstrate their new skills in programming, circuitry, and tool usage. The event offered a celebratory conclusion to the program and allowed the young engineers to showcase the critical thinking and problem-solving skills they developed throughout the week.
The Walla Walla Robotics Summer Camp continues to serve as a vital program, giving local youth a chance to delve into high-tech fields and ignite a passion for engineering and innovation that will benefit them—and the community—for years to come.
