If you have a child between 7-12 years old with a love for science, the Inspired by Science summer camp is an excellent opportunity to help them explore their curiosity.

The camp is specifically designed to encourage interested youths to pursue careers in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields and features an array of thought-provoking, hands-on activities. Traditionally held in Carlsbad, this year’s camp will be held virtually from July 12 through July 15, following last year’s successful foray into online sessions.

Started in 2014, Inspired by Science originally began as a family project; however, as more and more people in the New Mexico community found out about it, it grew to become a popular public event. For its first six years, the camp was a weeklong event based at New Mexico State University in Carlsbad. The number of young scientists attending every year continued to grow, until reaching approximately 100 participants.

For the 2021 Inspired by Science virtual camp, the coordinating team will conduct and discuss six experiments based around the theme of energy and color. Both potential and kinetic energies will be explored, and Newton’s Third Law of Motion will be demonstrated. To encourage critical thinking, two STEM challenges will be held, and participants will be able to upload photos of their work to win potential prizes.

Additionally, this year’s camp will have a “Family Experiment” that enables older scientists in the family to get involved.

The camp costs $15, and registration runs until June 30th. As part of registration, participants outside of Carlsbad will be mailed a science activity kit that contains everything they’ll need for the camp – other than a cup, scissors, vinegar, and water. Those living in Carlsbad will be able to pick up their kits locally.

STEM careers are among the best paying jobs in the country, with an average salary in 2017 of $87,570 – or more than $40,000 more than the average of non-STEM jobs. Putting in the extra effort to pick up and advanced or scientific degree clearly makes a difference in livelong earnings.

On top of extra earnings, the number of STEM jobs with openings is far outpacing non-STEM jobs. In other words, STEM majors are in high demand and are compensated better than any other majors.

The potential benefits for women pursuing a STEM degree are even higher as the wages from STEM careers help offset the gender wage gap. However, despite performing equally well in math and science as young men, young women are much less encouraged to pursue STEM majors due to traditional gender stereotypes. Minority women hold STEM degrees even less often. Out of all the states, the gender gap in STEM degree holders is largest in New Mexico.

To register your child for Inspired by Science’s 2021 virtual camp, click here.