The SUNY Poly Spotlight Series is a robust collection of camps for kids and teens as well as events and workshops for people of all ages. Showcasing the expertise of SUNY Poly faculty and staff and our Mohawk Valley community, the series provides opportunities for fun and learning in the areas of STEM, the arts, athletics, wellness, and more.
Have an idea for an event? Email us at events@sunypoly.edu and let us know!
Spring 2025 Events and Workshops
The gold listings are workshops or camps for middle and/or high school students with specific age ranges.
The blue listings are events and workshops for community members of all ages.
| 🏗️ Build a Bridge: Explore the World of Civil Engineering! 4/17/25 (Pre-Collegiate Workshop, Ages 11-16) |
A Hands-On Civil Engineering Learning Activity – Dr. Asif Ahmed, Associate Professor at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Thursday, April 17
Time: 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Location: Makers Lab, Room G255, Ground Floor, Donovan Hall, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Dr. Asif Ahmed, Associate Professor, SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: Dive into the exciting world of civil engineering in this hands-on, two-hour workshop! Participants will learn how engineers design bridges to withstand various loads and conditions. The students will team up to design and build their own model bridge! Using everyday materials, they’ll apply their own creativity and newly learned skills to construct a structure that can support weight. At the end of the workshop, the bridges will be tested to see how much they can hold—and crown the most innovative designs.
Fee: FREE/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Thursday, April 17 at 1 p.m.
Age Range: 11 years old - 16 years old
Participants: 20 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🧠 Beyond the Search: Learning to Use Artificial Intelligence to Get Better Answers: 4/21/25 |
Beyond the Search: How Artificial Intelligence (AI) Can Find Your Answers Better and More Quickly – Dr. William J. Thistleton, Associate Professor of Mathematics, and Dr. Steven M. Schneider, Professor of Information Design, Co-Directors of the Artificial Intelligence Explorations Center
Date: Monday, April 21
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Dr. William J. Thistleton, Associate Professor of Mathematics, and Dr. Steven M. Schneider, Professor of Information Design, Co-Directors of the Artificial Intelligence Explorations Center
Description: This talk and demonstration will explore how AI-driven prompt-response systems like ChatGPT and Gemini introduce new ways for people to interact with computers, including creating artifacts and finding information. We will demonstrate tools that use artificial intelligence to generate content that resembles language, music, visual art, and mathematical explanation. Additionally, we will examine how the process of searching for information is transformed when moving from the familiar use of queries and links to the less familiar experience of prompts and narrative-based responses, which often lack the traditional list of links.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Monday, April 21 at Noon
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🖨️ 3D Printing & AI-Powered Modeling Camp: 4/22/25 - 4/24/25 (Pre-Collegiate Camp, Ages 12-18) |
Design, Model, and 3DPrint - Nick LeJeune, Associate Professor of Interactive Media and Game Design and the Artificial Intelligence Exploration (AIX) Center at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Tuesday - Thursday, April 22 - 24
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Location: Computer Lab G217, Ground Floor, Donovan Hall, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Nick LeJeune, Associate Professor of Interactive Media and Game Design and the Artificial Intelligence Exploration (AIX) Center at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: Discover the power of AI in 3D design and bring your creations to life! In this hands-on camp, participants will learn to design 3D models using Blender, an open-source 3D modeling software, while leveraging AI tools to enhance creativity, accelerate model creation, and optimize designs. Students will explore the full process of conceptualizing, modeling, and printing their designs using 3D printers in SUNY Polytechnic Institute’s Maker and Additive Manufacturing Labs within the Center for Advanced Global Manufacturing (CGAM). Additionally, participants will get an introduction to SUNY Poly’s Interactive Media and Game Design (IMGD) Labs and degree program, providing insight into how 3D modeling skills apply to fields like gaming, animation, and digital fabrication. By the end of the camp, students will take home their own 3D-printed creations and gain the skills to continue exploring AI-assisted design independently. This camp is sponsored by the Artificial Intelligence Exploration (AIX) Center at SUNY Polytechnic Institute.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Girl Scout Badges: This event is eligible for the following Girl Scout Badge: Think Like an Engineer; Cadette (Grades 6-8), Senior (Grades 9-10), and Ambassador (Grades 11-12)
Deadline: Register by Tuesday, April 15 at Noon
Age Range: 12 years old - 18 years old (Middle and High School Students Only)
Participants: 20 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🐦✈️ Soaring into STEM: A Hands-On Adventure in Science and Engineering: 4/22/25 (Pre-Collegiate Camp, Ages 5-11) |
Explore, Experiment, and Soar with the Utica Children's Museum at SUNY Poly
Date: Tuesday, April 22
Time: 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room, Student Center, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Malik Johnson and Kim Newton, Utica Children's Museum
Description: Join the Utica Children's Museum at SUNY Poly for an exciting hands-on camp where elementary school students will explore science, nature, and engineering through fun-filled activities! From investigating how birds' beaks determine their diets to designing high-flying paper airplanes, kids will engage in interactive challenges that spark curiosity and creativity. In the "Why Do Birds Have Beaks?" activity, campers will experiment with different beak shapes to understand how they help birds eat specific foods. The "Paper Airplane Challenge" will have them designing and testing three different airplane models, discovering how simple changes in design affect flight distance and speed. This engaging camp offers a perfect mix of STEM learning and playful exploration, making science and engineering exciting for young minds. Don’t miss this opportunity for hands-on discovery and fun!
Fee: Free/RSVP Required (Thanks to the generous support of NYSTEC, this camp is free for all participants)
Girl Scout Badges: This is event is eligible for the following Girl Scout Badges: Animal Observer (Daisey, Grades K-1, STEM) and Mechanical Engineering: Fling Flyer (Brownie, Grades 2-3, STEM)
Deadline: Register by Tuesday, April 15 at Noon
Age Range: 5 years old - 11 years old
Participants: 25 (Max)
Register Now!
| 👷🏻♂️ Explore the Future with Indium Corporation: 4/23/25 (Pre-Collegiate Camp, Ages 11-16) |
A Hands-On Career Exploration Experience with Indium Corporation
Date: Wednesday, April 23
Time: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: Makers Lab, Room G225, Ground Floor, Donovan Hall, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Indium Corporation
Description: Step into the world of innovation and explore the diverse careers waiting for you at Indium Corporation. Learn all about Indium Corporation, who they are, what they do, and the future opportunities they can offer students. In this workshop, students will rotate through interactive stations, each offering an in-depth look at key areas of the organization, including Mechanical Engineering, Technical Sales, Product Management, Business Operations, Software, and IT. This immersive experience will inspire and connect the participant with professionals shaping the future. Don't miss your chance to discover how your talents can make an impact!
Fee: Free/RSVP Required (Thanks to the generous support of NYSTEC, this camp is free for all participants)
Girl Scout Badges: This is event is eligible for the following Girl Scout Badge: STEM Career Exploration - Cadette (Grades 6-8), Senior (Grades 9-10), and Ambassador (Grades 11-12)
Deadline: Register by Wednesday, April 16 at Noon
Age Range: 11 years old - 16 years old
Participants: 20 (Max)
Register Now!
| 💵 Money Management Basics: 4/24/25 (Afternoon Activity for Ages 11-16) |
Financial Education with First Source Federal Credit Union
Date: Thursday, April 24
Time: 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Location: Room A133, First Floor, Kunsela Hall, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Financial Education with First Source Federal Credit Union
Description: Join us for a hands-on, interactive financial presentation designed to help students learn the basics of saving and budgeting, savings & checking accounts, the difference between wants versus needs, and setting SMART goals. Kids will leave with a better understanding of how money works, its importance, and how to make smart decisions. It’s never too early to learn good money management habits and prepping for that first paycheck or what to do with birthday cash.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Girl Scout Badges: This event is eligible for the following Girl Scout Badges: Budget Maker (Junior, Grades 4-5, Financial Literacy, Entrepreneurship), My Dream Budget (Cadette, Grades 6-8, Financial Literacy, Entrepreneurship), Savvy Saver (Senior, Grades 9-10, Financial Literacy)
Deadline: Register by Thursday, April 17 at Noon
Age Range: 11 years old - 16 years old
Participants: 40 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🎵👨🏻🔬 STEAM Fusion: Where Music and Science collide! 4/25/25 (Pre-Collegiate Camp, Ages 11-16) |
This Spring Recess, Explore the Fusion of Music and Science at SUNY Poly in a Hands-On STEAM Camp Filled with Creativity, Rhythm, and Discovery!
Date: Friday, April 25
Time: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Location: Makers Lab, Room G225, Ground Floor, Donovan Hall, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Tamalin Martin, Barb Welch, and Dr. Andy Drozd from The Project Fibonacci Foundation, Inc.
Description: Get ready for an exciting day of hands-on exploration, creativity, and problem-solving at STEAM Fusion! This dynamic camp blends Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) in engaging, interactive activities designed to challenge young minds.
🔹 The Struggle is Real – Overcome obstacles and embrace resilience in this interactive workshop on managing stress, failure, and problem-solving. Campers will learn practical tools to navigate challenges with confidence.
🔹 STEAM Simulations & Critical Thinking – Dive into station-based challenges covering the full spectrum of STEAM fields. Through hands-on activities, students will sharpen their critical thinking, teamwork, and innovation skills.
🔹 The Fibonacci Beat: Music & Math in Harmony – Experience the fascinating connection between music and mathematics! Using drumming and rhythm exercises, students will explore the Fibonacci sequence in music, bringing an artistic and mathematical fusion to life.
This unique camp is perfect for curious learners eager to blend creativity with critical thinking while having fun. Join us and discover how science and music collide in exciting and unexpected ways!
Fee: Free/RSVP Required (Thanks to the generous support of NYSTEC, this camp is free for all participants)
Deadline: Register by Monday, April 21 at Noon
Age Range: 11 years old - 16 years old
Participants: 20 (Max)
Register Now!
| 👩🏻💻 Tech Time: Empowering Seniors and Retirees in the Digital Age: 4/26/25 |
Navigating Scams: Identifying and Avoiding Online Fraud - Noel Montero, Assistant Director of College Housing/Assistant Director of Residential Programing at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Saturday, April 26
Time: 2 p.m.
Location: Cayan Library, 2nd Floor, Mele Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Noel Montero, Assistant Director of College Housing/Assistant Director of Residential Programing at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: Join us for “Tech Time,” a vital session aimed at helping seniors recognize and protect themselves from common internet scams. This talk covers how to spot phishing emails, fake websites, and suspicious messages to keep your personal information secure.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Friday, April 25 at Noon
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🚘 Wildcat Motorsports (Baja) Annual Car Show: Marcy Motorworks: 4/27/25 |
Annual Car Show - SUNY Polytechnic's Baja SAE Team, Wildcat Motorsports
Date: Sunday, April 27
Time: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Location: Student Center Parking Lot (C-Lot), SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Organizer: SUNY Polytechnic's Baja SAE Team, Wildcat Motorsports. Paid for by the SUNY Poly Student Activity Fees.
Description: Join us for our 21st annual Car Show, where we will be hosting Touch-A-Truck, and a Car Smash, on top of prizes for a few lucky attendees who choose to display their vehicle in the show. There is a $10 per vehicle entry fee for those who'd like to participate. Please email Anthony Dudinyak at dudinya@sunypoly.edu with any questions and complete this form (https://tinyurl.com/polycarshow25) by Friday, April 25 at Noon if you'd like your car to be part of the display. For accommodations please contact sas@sunypoly.edu.
Fee: Free
| 🌍 Climate Changes and the Role of Renewable Energy: 5/5/25 |
Powering the Future: The Role of Renewable Energy in Combating Climate Change – Dr. Zhanjie Li, Professor of Engineering at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Monday, May 5
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Dr. Zhanjie Li, Professor of Engineering at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: This lecture delves into the critical role renewable energy plays in mitigating climate change and reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. It examines the latest advancements in solar, wind, and other renewable technologies, as well as the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to a clean energy economy. By exploring real-world examples and policy frameworks, the talk provides a roadmap for accelerating the shift toward a sustainable, low-carbon future.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Sunday, May 4 at Noon
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 📔 Capturing History: Digital Humanities and Visual Storytelling in Time Magazine: 5/6/25 |
Capturing History: Digital Humanities and Visual Storytelling in Time Magazine – Ana Jofre, PhD, MFA, Assistant Professor of Creative Arts and Technology at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Tuesday, May 6
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Ana Jofre, PhD, MFA, Assistant Professor of Creative Arts and Technology at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: Join us to explore groundbreaking research in digital humanities, focused on visual storytelling through Time Magazine’s rich image archives. This presentation delves into how digital tools and analysis reveal new insights into the evolution of American culture, history, and media representation. Discover how technology is transforming our understanding of iconic images and uncovering hidden narratives within Time’s visual legacy.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Monday, May 5 at Noon
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🧿 Wolfspeed: Driving Innovation in Semiconductor Manufacturing: 5/7/25 |
Insights from Jim Oerth, Mohawk Valley Fab Manager at Wolfspeed
Date: Wednesday, May 7
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Jim Oerth, Mohawk Valley Fab Manager at Wolfspeed
Description: Join Jim Oerth as he shares insights into the cutting-edge advancements in semiconductor manufacturing. Wolfspeed is driving innovation and shaping the future of technology through state-of-the-art processes and groundbreaking solutions. Discover the challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving semiconductor industry and how Wolfspeed is leading the charge.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Tuesday, May 6 at Noon
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🍕 SUNY Poly Pizza Creation Station: 5/13/25 |
Make and Take Your Own Pizza – Dennis Bord, Executive Chef of Wildcat Hospitality at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Tuesday, May 13
Time: 5 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Kitchen, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Chef: Dennis Bord, Executive Chef of Wildcat Hospitality at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: Join us for a deliciously fun “Make & Take Your Own Pizza” event where you become the chef! Craft your perfect pie with a variety of fresh ingredients to create classic cheese, pepperoni, supreme, or veggie. Whether you’re a pizza pro or a first-time maker, this hands-on experience is perfect for all ages and guarantees tasty results to enjoy at home the very same night!
Fee: $25 per person
Deadline: Register by Monday, May 12 at Noon
Participants: 10 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🦎 UZ&U: The Utica Zoo Classroom Experience: 7/19/25 (Pre-Collegiate Workshop, Ages 11-18) |
Wildlife and Wisdom: The Utica Zoo Classroom Experience - Zak Hughes, Education and Conservation Manager at the Utica Zoo
Date: Saturday, July 19
Time: 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Zak Hughes, Education and Conservation Manager at the Utica Zoo
Description: Discover the wonders of wildlife with “UZ&U,” an engaging classroom-style program presented by the Utica Zoo. Expert educators will lead you through interactive presentations on fascinating animal-themed topics, featuring live animals that bring each lesson to life. A portion of the program’s proceeds supports vital conservation efforts, making every visit a step toward protecting our planet’s wildlife.
Fee: FREE/RSVP Required (Thanks to the generous support of NYSTEC, this camp is free for all participants)
Deadline: Register by Friday, July 18 at Noon
Age Range: 11 years old - 18 years old
Participants: 30 (Max) and 10 (Min)
Register Now!
| 🏀 Boys and Girls Basketball Camp: 6/30/25 - 7/3/25 (Pre-Collegiate Athletic Camp, Ages 7-14) |
“Boys and Girls Basketball Camp” w/ SUNY Polytechnic Institute Wildcat Athletics
Date: Monday, June 30 – Thursday, July 3
Time: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: Wildcat Field House, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Coaches: Rob Schoener and Jessica Skelton, Head Men's and Women's Basketball Coaches for SUNY Polytechnic Institute Wildcat Athletics
Description: Come join the SUNY Poly Men's & Women's Basketball Coaches for four days of basketball fun! Days will consist of small group instruction in areas such as shooting, passing, defense & other skills. Team games will take place culminating in camp championships and there will be various contests & competitions throughout the week. Lunch in the Student Center is included in the cost of registration. If you have more than one child that you’d like to register, please contact Rob Schoener at schoenr@sunypoly.edu for a discount.
Fee: $200.00 per person (Eventbrite Fees: 3.7% & $1.79 per ticket + 2.9% Credit Card Processing Fee)
Deadline: Register by Friday, June 27 at Noon
Age Range: 7 years old - 14 years old
Participants: 120 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🏐 Women’s Volleyball Camp: 8/11/25 – 8/14/25 (Athletic Camp, Ages 15-18) |
“Women’s Volleyball Camp” w/ SUNY Polytechnic Institute Wildcat Athletics
Date: Monday, August 11 – Thursday, August 14
Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Wildcat Field House, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Coaches: Dan Short, Head Men's & Women's Volleyball Coach for SUNY Polytechnic Institute Wildcat Athletics
Description: Come join the SUNY Poly Men's and Women's Volleyball Coaches for four days of volleyball learning and fun! Days will consist of small group instruction in areas serving, passing, hitting & other skills. Plenty competitive games will take place throughout the four days ending in a large amount of six-on-six play. If you have more than one child that you’d like to register, please contact Dan Short at shortdk1@sunypoly.edufor a discount.
Fee: $180.00 per person (Eventbrite Fees: 3.7% & $1.79 per ticket + 2.9% Credit Card Processing Fee)
Deadline: Register by Monday, August 4 at Noon
Age Range: 15 years old - 18 years old
Participants: 60 (Max) and 20 (Min)
Register Now!
| 🏐 Men’s Volleyball Camp: 8/11/25 – 8/14/25 (Athletic Camp, Ages 15-18) |
“Men’s Volleyball Camp” w/ SUNY Polytechnic Institute Wildcat Athletics
Date: Monday, August 11 – Thursday, August 14
Time: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: Wildcat Field House, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Coaches: Dan Short, Head Men's & Women's Volleyball Coach for SUNY Polytechnic Institute Wildcat Athletics
Description: Come join the SUNY Poly Men's and Women's Volleyball Coaches for four days of volleyball learning and fun! Days will consist of small group instruction in areas serving, passing, hitting & other skills. Plenty competitive games will take place throughout the four days ending in a large amount of six-on-six play. If you have more than one child that you’d like to register, please contact Dan Short at shortdk1@sunypoly.edufor a discount.
Fee: $180.00 per person (Eventbrite Fees: 3.7% & $1.79 per ticket + 2.9% Credit Card Processing Fee)
Deadline: Register by Monday, August 4 at Noon
Age Range: 15 years old - 18 years old
Participants: 60 (Max) and 20 (Min)
Register Now!
| 🌲SUNY Blooms Campus Beautification Day: 10/17/25 |
Transform SUNY Poly Together!
Date: Friday, October 17
Time: 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Team Leaders: Facilities at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: Join us, a day before "National Community Clean-Up Day," for SUNY Poly’s Beautification Event, a day dedicated to enhancing the beauty and spirit of our campus! Volunteers will take part in a variety of projects, including painting, landscaping, and assisting Facilities and Grounds with maintenance and cleanup efforts. Together, we can create a vibrant and welcoming environment that reflects our pride in SUNY Poly!
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Wednesday, October 15 at Noon
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🐒 Leaping into the Wild: The Secret Life of Lemurs: 10/27/25 |
Tales, Tails, and Tree-Hopping Truths About Lemurs – Adam T. McLain, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Biology at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Monday, October 27
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Adam T. McLain, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Biology at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: Join us for a wild adventure into the treetops of Madagascar as we explore the fascinating world of lemurs – leaping, lounging, and laughing all the way! From their quirky behaviors to their fight for survival, this playful presentation shines a spotlight on why these unique primates deserve our attention and protection.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Monday, October 27 at Noon
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
