On June 7th, The
Guernseys and I went up to the Rocks 4-H Camp for Engineering Camp. I had a
great time there, and we were able to compete and work together in various
challenges, such as making cardboard shelves, or constructing a Rube Goldberg
Machine. We were put into teams of three to four people, and we were expected
to work together on each challenge they gave us. My favorite challenge would be
where they challenged us to make motorized boats with a small electric motor,
pool noodles and a square piece of plywood. Nobody was successful, but it was
fun, and we were able to hang out in the pool afterwards. Throughout Saturday,
we also rotated through three stations that taught us different aspects of
STEM; Electrical engineering, computer hardware, and welding. The electrical
station taught us about household wiring and how to replace them, as well as
the fundamentals on how electric circuits work. The computer class taught us
the basic components and functions of a computer, and how to do simple
troubleshooting for errors. Welding was a class that came back every year –
this year, we used arc welders to weld horseshoe nails into a desired shape.
Overall, Engineering Camp was a fun and insightful experience, and I would like
to go next year as well.
Brennan's Team finished first! They each received and 3D printed 4H clover medal.
