Support SEEK Camp

The Summer Engineering Exploration Kamp (SEEK), hosted by the University of Kentucky Department of Civil Engineering, fulfills a need for outreach programs that will inspire young people to consider civil engineering. SEEK is an engaging one-week residential (i.e., the students will stay on campus in the university dorms) summer camp held on the campus of the University of Kentucky (UK) specifically for rising high school seniors. SEEK offers a unique and comprehensive experience for high school seniors, blending academic instruction, hands-on projects, interaction with practicing engineers from regional engineering companies and governmental agencies, field trips to active project sites and mentorship with current civil engineering students to foster the next generation of civil engineers.

The primary goal of SEEK is to inspire and excite STEM-focused high school students about infrastructure-related fields to develop a strong talent pipeline for civil engineering, with a focus on high school students that may have little to no prior exposure to civil engineering. By exposing these students to engineering concepts and career opportunities, SEEK aims to inspire and prepare them for future studies and careers in the field of civil engineering.

During SEEK, participants immerse themselves in the world of civil engineering through a range of activities. The camp includes field trips to notable civil engineering project sites, where students observe real-world engineering practices and understand their applications. These excursions are paired with opportunities to interact with seasoned industry engineers, who offer valuable insights into the profession and share their expertise.

Summer 2024 was the inaugural year of the camp. SEEK 2024 consisted of a June cohort and a July cohort, with 20 students in each cohort. For the inaugural year, there were approximately 94+ applicants from across the Commonwealth of Kentucky for 40 spots! Students were selected from 20 counties around the Commonwealth as well as one student from North Carolina! For summer 2025, there were three cohorts with 20 students in each cohort. We received 145+ applications for 60 spots, with students coming from Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio. From these first two years, we have impacted 100 students, of which approximately 85 to 90 students are now projected to begin or are considering a STEM major. To keep the cost to students for the camp at a minimum, we are soliciting funds for the camp through industry and professional organization sponsorships, funds from charitable foundations, and donations from individuals.