Imagine if, in 20 years time,…
- Vehicles were fueled by a non-polluting renewable resource
- Your car was able to avoid collisions for you
- Potholes were considered “quaint” relics of the past
- Chickens (and deer) could safely cross the road…
Who will build the transportation system of the future?
Introduction
Our nation’s transportation system impacts each of us every day. We need to develop the next generation of engineers, scientists, planners, designers and innovators to tackle the transportation problems of today to make a difference tomorrow.
The Summer Transportation Institute (STI) is an innovative summer program for high school students guaranteed to spark their interest in transportation through creative problem-solving and hands-on activities. Participants will have the opportunity to experience college life, explore career options, and improve their academic performance. Students gain skills in applied science and math, work together with their peers on design teams, and meet university and professional staff in the transportation field.
The STI provides a stimulating introduction to all modes of transportation through professional presentations, field trips, and hands-on activities. Participants live in the dormitories on campus and participate in a sports and recreation program in the evenings and on weekends. The program is free to all selected participants. Food, housing, and program expenses are paid for by a generous grant from the Federal Highway Administration.
Who Participates?
Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students
How to Apply?
Click on the Summer Transportation Institute Application link to download an application form. Send in your application to the address listed (applications accepted until program filled. Priority given to applications received by March 1).
When is it?
June 13-25, 2009
Where is it held?
Montana State University campus in Bozeman.
2006 STI participants demonstrate team work
Academic Activities
STI participants learn about all modes of transportation and about transportation safety. Activities include presentations, field trips, and hands-on activities. Topics include:
Transportation Infrastructure
Design, build and test road construction materials including asphalt, concrete, and soils in fun hands-on labs.
Design team tests strength of reinforced soil
Safety
Use the Western Transportation Institute’s Driving Simulator to design a simulator scenario that will put your friends’ driving skills to the test.
STI participant takes the WTI Driving Simulator for a test drive
Road Ecology
Learn how ecologists work with highway engineers to reduce road kill and other negative environmental impacts of roads.
WTI researcher demonstrates how roads can be a barrier to fish passage
Air, Water, and Land Transportation
Explore scenic and unique Montana destinations on field trips geared to further your understanding of air, water, and land transportation.
STI participant takes a discovery flight at Gallatin Field
Traffic Engineering
Understand traffic engineering by exploring the planning and design process as it relates to traffic flow.
Team Design Projects
STI participants learn to work in teams on a number of competitive and non-competitive group projects. Examples include balsa wood bridges, gliders, small electric cars with gears, and crash attenuators.
Students test different asphalt design mixes
Sports and Recreation
The STI is not all work and no play! Enthusiastic residence hall assistants organize a diverse sports and recreation program during free time in the evenings and on weekends. Some possible activities include:
Volleyball - Basketball - Other Games
Swimming - River rafting - Camping/Hiking
Dance Lessons - Shopping - Billiards
Picnics - Movie Nights - Bowling
Lewis and Clark Caverns - Museum of the Rockies
Shakespeare in the Parks
Roasting marshmallows on weekend camping trip
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Field Trips
Meeting professionals in their workplace is the best way to learn about career opportunities. STI participants take a number of field trips during the program to experience different modes of transportation and to experience transportation careers. Some examples are provided below:
- Train ride in historic Virginia City
- Gates of the Mountain ferry ride
- Trident cement factory
- Montana Department of Transportation headquarters
- Gallatin Field airport
- Yellowstone National Park
STI participants use spotting scopes to spy roadside critters
Enhancement Program
One of the goals of the Summer Transportation Institute is to prepare students for college and careers. STI participants will learn essential college preparatory information about degrees and coursework, applying for colleges, obtaining financial aid, and choosing a major.
STI participants also have the opportunity to take a career “strong interest survey” to help them better understand their work environment preferences. They also learn tips from MSU’s Career Services experts about researching careers and salaries, finding job opportunities, and building a winning resume.
Sponsorship
Program funding is provided by the Federal Highway Administration. All housing, meal, and program expenses are covered by the sponsor for students accepted into the program.
TRY SOMETHING NEW THIS SUMMER!
APPLY FOR WTI's SUMMER TRANSPORTATION INSTITUTE
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