UTICA, NY –– SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly) has partnered with Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC) to present the STEMpowerment Series at the Cornhill Empowerment Center, a program funded by the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties. These free, hands-on STEM camps are offered to youth ages 8 to 15.

With only two sessions remaining and limited spots available, families are encouraged to register now to secure their place. The upcoming topics—Introduction to Electricity (August 4–7) and Introduction to Microcontrollers and Programming (August 11–14)—will give youth a chance to spark creativity and explore STEM in an exciting, supportive environment.

Held at the Cornhill Empowerment Center, 230 James St. Utica, the STEMpowerment Series offers young participants the opportunity to build confidence, develop problem-solving skills, and engage with real-world science and technology. Through team-based engineering challenges, hands-on experiments, and interactive learning, students are empowered to imagine what’s possible.

“This program is about more than science and technology - it's about empowering the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, and problem-solvers,” said John Reade, Director of Pre-Collegiate Outreach at SUNY Polytechnic Institute. “By partnering with MVCC and the Community Foundation, we’re bringing meaningful, community-rooted STEM opportunities directly to youth. It’s been incredible to see the excitement and growth already, and we can’t wait to welcome more students for the final sessions.”

“We are proud to partner with SUNY Poly and The Community Foundation on the STEMpowerment summer camp,” said Sarah Lam, MVCC’s Executive Dean of Community and Workforce Development.
“This collaboration represents a shared commitment to inspiring and empowering the next generation of innovators right here in our community. By creating engaging, hands-on STEM experiences for youth, we are opening doors to future careers and helping build a stronger, more vibrant Mohawk Valley.”

“The Community Foundation began managing the Cornhill Empowerment Center in March. It’s inspiring to see the Center come alive with the energy of young minds exploring what’s possible,” said Tyler Hutchinson, Director of Strategic Initiatives at the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties. “The STEMpowerment Series isn’t just teaching skills but sparking curiosity, building confidence, and unlocking potential. This is the beginning of the type of impact we hope to see more of at the Cornhill Empowerment Center, creating opportunities for everyone while offering fun and exciting ways to prepare youth for the future.”

The STEMpowerment Series is free to attend, but registration is required and space is limited. Participants can register on MVCC's website at this link.