Genesis Campers Explore Future Careers

The theme was Building, Caring and Repairing

Photo provided.

(Southeast Indiana) - Genesis: Pathways to Success is proud to celebrate the successful conclusion of four engaging A Summer of STREAM career exploration camps: Intro to Building Trades Camp, DIY Woodworking Camp, Intro to Veterinary Science Camp, and Intro to Diesel Camp. Through hands-on learning experiences and partnerships with local industry leaders, students explored a variety of career pathways while building practical skills in real-world learning environments.

The week began with Intro to Building Trades Camp, where students learned the fundamentals of woodworking and construction. After receiving instruction on shop safety and the proper use of power tools—including drills, sanders, and other woodworking equipment—campers put their new skills into action by building their own hanging bird feeders. Students customized their projects by sanding, assembling, and decorating them with unique designs, with several campers carving trees and other creative artwork into the wood.

"I had a lot of fun because I already knew a little bit about woodworking," said camper Dylan Wessel. "It was really cool to build something myself, and I liked being able to help my friends when they needed it."

Students continued developing their woodworking skills during DIY Woodworking Camp, held in partnership with Iron Timbers of Osgood. Throughout the two-day camp, students created personalized charcuterie boards and decorative wooden signs while learning advanced woodworking techniques. Campers selected their own unique pieces of wood, removed the bark, sanded each project, and prepared the wood for finishing. Using a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) laser engraver, each student personalized their projects with family names, meaningful sayings, Bible verses, and custom designs before applying a final sanding and protective oil finish. By the end of camp, every student left with two handcrafted projects that showcased both their creativity and newly developed woodworking skills.

The excitement continued with Intro to Veterinary Science Camp, where students explored what it takes to care for animals through a variety of interactive learning stations. Campers created custom dog toys, examined animal specimens, practiced proper bandaging techniques, and even performed wellness checkups on live kittens. One of the day's favorite activities challenged students to race against one another to correctly bandage a model dog while blindfolded, reinforcing teamwork and communication in an engaging way.

The final camp of the week, Intro to Diesel Camp, gave students an inside look at the world of diesel technology. Campers removed valve covers from a Cummins diesel engine, learned the process of mounting and dismounting tires, and explored the tools, equipment, and safety practices used by diesel technicians every day. Throughout the experience, students gained a greater understanding of career opportunities within the diesel industry while working alongside knowledgeable instructors in the Southeastern Career Center's diesel technology lab.Each camper received a certificate of completion to recognize their hard work and celebrate the new skills they developed throughout the week.

Genesis extends its sincere appreciation to Southeastern Career Center for providing outstanding facilities and instructors that gave students an authentic look into careers in the skilled trades, veterinary science, and diesel technology. Genesis also thanks Iron Timbers of Osgood for partnering on DIY Woodworking Camp and sharing their craftsmanship and expertise with the next generation of makers and builders. Special thanks to the Baxter International Foundation, Kappa Kappa Kappa, Ripley County Community Foundation, Ripley County Council, Tyson Fund, and the Versailles Lions Club for their generous financial support of A Summer of STREAM programming. Their investment helps provide meaningful hands-on learning experiences that inspire students to explore new interests, develop valuable skills, and discover future career pathways.

Genesis: Pathways to Success is proud to provide engaging educational opportunities that inspire youth throughout Southeastern Indiana and thanks the many community partners, volunteers, and supporters who make A Summer of STREAM possible. Genesis: Pathways to Success still has exciting A Summer of STREAM camp opportunities available for students of all ages. Families interested in hands-on learning experiences are encouraged to explore upcoming camps and register while spots remain available. If you would like to learn more about Genesis: Pathways to Success or have questions regarding summer programming, please visit www.genesisp2s.org, email info@genesisp2s.org, call 812-933-1098, or visit 13 East George Street, Suite B, Batesville, IN 47006.