Program Overview

Program Overview

The STEAMM Inventor's Studio is a project-based program that combines hands-on discovery with classroom learning, led by established RPI professors and supported by RPI Student Assistants. The program explores cutting-edge interdisciplinary topics and career paths that integrate disciplines in science, technology, engineering, art, mathematics, and medicine.

Program Details

Duration and Format

The 2025 program will take place from July 28 to August 8, over two weeks (excluding weekends), in a non-residential, in-person format.

Location

The program will be held at the School of Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180.

Highlights

• Semiconductor, Advanced Manufacturing
• Robotics, AI, Quantum computing
• Community Engagement for Societal Issues, Science Policy

Key Activities

• Hands-on Learning
• Inventor Studio Projects
• Industry & Lab Tours
• Workshops & Leadership Talks
• Effective Written Technical, Communication & Presentation Skills
• Resume Building, Admissions, & Campus Life

Program Costs and Application

Program Costs

The program costs $1,250, including lunches, snacks, trips, and materials for projects. The program is partially funded by NORDTECH.

Application and Registration

• Prerequisites: Students looking to explore a career in engineering, science, technology, and especially their crosscutting disciplines, are encouraged to apply. This program is designed for rising 10th-12th grade students, and graduating seniors may also apply.
• Program Cost for 2025 Day Program: $1,250 (including lunches, snacks, trips, and materials for projects).

Faculty and Instructional Team

Program Director

Dr. Lucy Zhang is Associate Dean for Research Innovations, Partnerships, and Workforce Development and a Professor of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Her research focuses on computational mechanics.

Project Directors

• Dr. Asish Ghosh is Professor of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, with over 25 years of industry experience.
• Dr. Casey Hoffman is a Senior Lecturer of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, bringing a creative mindset and experience as an entrepreneur.

Program Administration

The program is administered by Summer@Rensselaer and the School of Engineering Pre-College Education and Outreach Program Manager.

Additional Information

What to Bring

• Comfortable clothing and shoes ready for walking and hands-on activities
• Laptop or Chromebook (required for learning certain engineering tools)
• Backpack, pens/pencils, notebook, water bottle, and cell phone

Nearby Hotel Locations

• Hilton Garden Inn Troy
• Courtyard by Marriott Albany Troy/Waterfront
• Best Western Plus Franklin Square Inn Troy/Albany

Student Responsibilities

Students must furnish their own transportation to and from campus. Check-in takes place from 9-9:30 am, with class beginning promptly at 9:30 am on Monday, and ending at 4 pm daily (unless otherwise specified for field trips). The final Friday will conclude with a presentation, and students are free to leave at the conclusion of the studio presentation.