Students from Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools (RDCRS) got to explore potential careers in engineering technology during a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Boot Camp.  

The event was held in partnership with the Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET) and the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT).   

The boot camp was an opportunity for Grade 9 to 12 students to have hands-on experiences in laboratories and engage with NAIT’s Electrical Engineering Technology and Mechanical Engineering Technology faculty.  

For Cameron Peddle, a St. Joseph High School student, the boot camp reinforced his decision to pursue a mechanical engineering career.   

“This camp made me feel more confident in my decision,” Peddle said. “I knew I wanted to do this since grade 11. But for someone who may not have known they wanted to go into engineering technology, a camp like this might make them want to pursue it.”  

For other students, the event inspired them to consider a career in the field of engineering technology.  

“Our students gained valuable insight through their participation in the camp, fostering their passion for STEM fields and preparing them for future academic and career endeavors in engineering and technology,” said Tracey Millar, Off-Campus Programs Lead Teacher. “The opportunity to spend time in an authentic learning environment with high-level instructors is incredibly valuable for our students.”