Campers learning from OEC's Ben Wilson
hosted an experimental Energy Camp in June. This free, week-long day camp for students grades 4-6 was a first for the Cooperative. The Pioneer members’ students were selected by their teachers to participate based on their academic achievement and interest in science and math. Over the course of five days, students participated in hands-on experiments designed to teach about energy sources, energy efficiency, the cooperative difference, and building circuits. The students had the opportunity to tour the and to listen to a presentation by OEC’s Ben Wilson at Pioneer’s solar array in Urbana. The camp culminated in an ultimate game of Capture the Flag, led by two Pioneer Electric Cooperative engineering staff members. Teams of students also competed in a challenge building burglar alarm circuits. It was a winner-take-all battle for treats and team pride.
“Abby said it was so fun and she is glad she got picked to do it. She always told us her adult job was to be a veterinarian. But now, she might change it to be an electrical engineer. Thank you all for being so kind and making this a memorable camp for her!” said Abby’s mom, Pioneer member.
“We were looking for unique ways to increase our community presence,” says Elizabeth Connor, manager of communications and marketing at Pioneer Electric Cooperative. “We tried a little bit of everything with the students and were very fortunate to have OEC provide a fantastic field trip day for the students. It was an experience they won’t forget.”
Pioneer Electric Cooperative will use the feedback from the campers, parents, staff, and teachers to chart a course for future education and community programs.