This summer, the Project CAMINOS STEM Summer Academy at Cal Poly Pomona (CPP) welcomed high school students from across Los Angeles for a week of hands-on STEM exploration. Now in its sixth year, Project CAMINOS has been supported by the L.A. Region K-16 Collaborative since 2023. Both initiatives aim to expand college access, persistence and degree completion in computer science and engineering, particularly for women-identifying students, who make up roughly 20 percent of students enrolled in those programs.

The Academy has introduced students to hands-on learning experiences ranging from robotics to architecture. The aim of the week-long immersion program is to show students, many visiting CPP for the first time, that a university education is not just possible, but within their reach. Through Project CAMINOS, education and STEM pathways are made accessible to students and create opportunities leading to degree completion and career exposure.

Judi Quintero, Outreach Coordinator for Project CAMINOS, noted, “Without [L.A. Region K-16 Collaborative] funding, we wouldn’t be able to put on a fleshed-out program.” She emphasized the importance of giving more students, especially those who may not initially see CPP as their first choice, the chance to experience the campus firsthand.

Xiomara Melendez, Senior Coordinator of Early Academic Engagement in CPP’s Division of Academic Affairs, noted the program has become a trusted partner in the region and plays an important role in showing students that they belong at CPP. She adds, “Thanks to the support of the L.A. Regional K-16 Collaborative, Project CAMINOS will continue its mission to expand college access and success for students and families beyond the [initial funding from the] U.S. Department of Education Title V Hispanic Serving Institution grant.” In alignment with the goals of the L.A. Region K-16 Collaborative, “This year’s increase in female participation reflects our shared commitment to equity in STEM, and we’re hearing from students that they leave feeling comfortable in our classrooms, confident in our labs and connected to a community that’s ready to welcome them. That’s the heart of this work, opening doors and making sure students see themselves walking through with confidence, community and purpose.”

Read more about the Project CAMINOS STEM Summer Academy at Cal Poly Pomona (CPP) here.

For more information, please reach out to Andrew Giang, Manager of Postsecondary Strategy & Policy, at [email protected].