2025 Summer Academies

We are excited to offer 29 career exploration Summer Academies to students 6th-12th grades.

Participants can register for any Academies of their choice, but due to increased interest in our free programming, students will be admitted into a maximum of 3 academies through the lottery process.

Academies are typically one day programs designed to provide a unique opportunity for students to explore a variety of careers.

We believe in giving students options to make informed decisions about their future.

Local professionals will share their expertise and career journey.

Registration opens Tue. April 1st

Program Registration: Lottery System
(registration submission does NOT guarantee acceptance)

  • No more waking up early worrying about having to be first in line to register! Registration will announced, open and available for several weeks. You will see the open dates on the event pages.Anyone (that falls within the correct age/grade) is able to register during that time.
  • After the close of registration student names will be randomly selected for the programming that they registered for until the class list is full. Remaining students will be randomly selected for waiting list order. We will then contact the chosen participants. If we’re unable to receive confirmation of participation after three days we will move to the first person on the waitlist.
  • Please keep in mind that if your student is registered for something and cannot make it, there are usually other students that want to come, so please let us know asap so we have the time to contact other students.

2025 Summer Academies

We are excited to offer 29 career exploration Summer Academies to students 6th-12th grades.

Participants can register for any Academies of their choice, but due to increased interest in our free programming, students will be admitted into a maximum of 3 academies through the lottery process.

Academies are typically one day programs designed to provide a unique opportunity for students to explore a variety of careers.

We believe in giving students options to make informed decisions about their future.

Local professionals will share their expertise and career journey.

Program Registration: Lottery System
(registration submission does NOT guarantee acceptance)

  • No more waking up early worrying about having to be first in line to register! Registration will announced, open and available for several weeks. You will see the open dates on the event pages.Anyone (that falls within the correct age/grade) is able to register during that time.
  • After the close of registration student names will be randomly selected for the programming that they registered for until the class list is full. Remaining students will be randomly selected for waiting list order. We will then contact the chosen participants. If we’re unable to receive confirmation of participation after three days we will move to the first person on the waitlist.
  • Please keep in mind that if your student is registered for something and cannot make it, there are usually other students that want to come, so please let us know asap so we have the time to contact other students.

June 10-11 & 13, 2025

Ethical Hacking & Coding

  • Grades: 6-12
  • Number students:  12
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Hendricks CareerTek

Instructor:

Brandon White

Students will dive into the world of ethical computer hacking, explore cybersecurity tools, and learn to code with their instructor, a former hacker, data security expert, and software engineer.

They will learn to identify the patterns and behavior of the different types of malware and hear stories of world-renowned hackers. They will also code their own introductory software in real world programming languages and be shown the tactics that engineers at tech companies use to ensure the security of their products and customer information.

Demos will showcase the tools that security researchers use to identify vulnerabilities and protect systems against malware, inspect the construction behind the dark web and learn how it is used for good and bad, and the instructor will stage an attack on his own servers to show how companies apply ethical hacking to improve their security.

Students will leave with the knowledge on how to protect their own personal data and devices from malware, an understanding of the inner workings of computer software and the internet, and will develop skills to be able to continue writing code at home. No prior coding experience is required.

June 10, 11, 12, 2025

GLOBE Community Science Camp

  • Grades: 6-12
  • Number students:  25
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Welty Environmantal Center
    1201 W. Big Hill Rd
    Beloit

Partner:
Welty Environmental Center logo

Instructor:

T.B.A.

GLOBE Citizen Science Camp encourages students to connect with the outdoors by investigating the many spheres of the world: atmosphere (air and weather), pedosphere (soil), and hydrosphere (water).

Over the course of this week, campers will become citizen scientists and share their observations with NASA scientists through the Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE) Program.

This hands-on experience will demonstrate various STEM fields that students can pursue in the future.

Participants must be prepared to spend time outdoors (i.e., sunscreen, bug spray, long pants, close-toed shoes) and bring old shoes for use in the water as we will be exploring wetlands during this week as well!

June 11, 2025

SafeSitter 1

  • Age: Must Be Between 11-15 Years Old
    (minimum 6th grade)
  • Number students:  10
  • Times: 8:30-3:15
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Hendricks CareerTek

Partners:
Mercyhealth

YMCA logo

Instructors:

American Red Cross Staff
Courtney Urbanek

Designed to prepare students to be safe when they’re home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting. The Instructor-led class is filled with fun games and role-playing exercises. Students even get to use mannequin to practice rescue skills like choking rescue!

June 11, 18, 25, July 9, 16, 23, 2025

SCRUBS

  • Grades: 9-12
  • Number students: 12
  • Times: 9:00-12:00
  • Location:
    Blackhawk Technical College
    Main Campus
    6004 S. County Rd. G
    Janesville

Partner:

Blackhawk Technical College

Instructors:
Kristy Crocker
Kris Marklein

BTC utilizes a state-of-the-art simulation lab with medical and public safety scenarios to replicate real pre-hospital and clinical events.

This academy will provide for multiple interactive and hands-on experiences to allow students the opportunity to learn and practice skills in a controlled environment using life size robotic patient simulators.

The scope of information and practice provided to students, will range from infant to adult patient age groups and conditions. Simulations will have a realistic affect.

June 12, 2025

Programming with Python

  • Grades: 6-8
  • Number students:  12
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch provided)
  • Location:
    Blackhawk Technical College
    Main Campus
    6004 S. County Rd. G
    Janesville

Partner:
Blackhawk Technical College

Instructor:

Melissa Dix

Students will hear a brief history of programming that includes Python, and will explore the way it is used in IoT (Internet of Things).

They will set up an environment of free interpreter software that can be used at home to further learning. They will write a simple program and then advance to more complicated scripting as time allows.

Students will leave with some resurces they can use to continue learning to program in Python on their own.

June 16, 2025

Intro to Robotics

  • Grades: 8-12
  • Number students:  12
  • Times: 9:00-12:00
  • Location:
    Morse Library
    Beloit College

Partner:
Beloit College

Instructors:
Ted Wilder & TurtleTek Robotics Team

Get ready for the exciting world of robotics! Students will learn the full process of building and programming robots.

First, they’ll assemble a robot, putting together all the essential parts. Then, they’ll dive into the world of coding, programming the robot to perform tasks and follow commands. Finally, they will put their skills to the test by completing an awesome challenge seeing how well the robot can perform.

It’s a perfect mix of creativity, problem-solving, and fun!

June 17, 18, 2025

Culinary 1 (Middle School)

  • Grades: 6-8
  • Number students:  12
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Blackhawk Technical College
    Main Campus
    6004 S. County Rd. G
    Janesville

Partner:
Blackhawk Technical College

Instructor:
Chef Robert Patrick
Chef Hakim Salaam

Middle school students!
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and step into the world of cooking!

In this exciting summer academy, students will dive into the craft of culinary arts while creating delicious dishes that they will get to enjoy!

From learning kitchen basics, to mastering fun and creative recipes, students will have a hands-on experience in the kitchen that’s both educational and delicious.

June 17, 2025

Diesel Tech

  • Grades: 8-12
  • Number students:  10
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Blackhawk Technical College
    Main Campus
    6004 S. County Rd. G
    Janesville

Partner:
Blackhawk Technical College

Instructor:
Steve Jones 

Diesel technicians possess the necessary skills to become specialized mechanics in the construction, agriculture, and railway transportation sectors.

The Diesel academy offers students a glimpse into the daily life of a diesel technician, where they will engage in a brakes project involving one of our large diesel rigs.

REQUIREMENTS

  • Closed toe shoes required, no sandals or Crocs etc.
  • No loose clothes or hoodie strings that can get caught in moving parts
  • Tie back long hair
  • Safety glasses will be supplied but are required to be worn

June 17, 2025

Fabric & Flair:
Intro to Clothing Design & Construction

  • Grades: 9-12
  • Number students:  15
  • Times:  9:00-12:00
  • Locations:
    Hendricks Center Costume Shop
    (Lower level)
    Beloit College

Partner:

Beloit College

Instructor:
Shelbi Wilkin

Whether you’re new to fashion or already love it, this academy is for you!

Students will learn the basics of clothing design and how clothes are made. They will explore key design elements and learn basic sewing techniques culminating with a fun, Project Runway-style group challenge where they’ll showcase designs and creativity!

June 17, 2025

SafeSitter 2

  • Age: Must Be Between 11-15 Years Old
    (minimum 6th grade)
  • Number students:  10
  • Times: 8:30-3:15
    (lunch included)
  • Locations:
    Hendricks CareerTek

Partners:
Mercyhealth

YMCA logo

Instructors:

American Red Cross Staff
Courtney Urbanek

Designed to prepare students to be safe when they’re home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting. The Instructor-led class is filled with fun games and role-playing exercises. Students even get to use mannequin to practice rescue skills like choking rescue!

June 17, 18, 19, 2015

STEAM Represent!

  • Grades: 6-12
  • Number students:  20
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Welty Environmantal Center
    1201 W. Big Hill Rd
    Beloit

Partner:
Welty Environmental Center logo

Instructor:

T.B.A.

People are more likely to follow the footsteps of people they identify with.

Investigate many facets of science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) through the lens of water science and meet role models of different backgrounds.

Over the course of this week, students will get their feet wet to collect chemistry and freshwater macroinvertebrate data to study causes and propose solutions to water quality issues.

They will also engage with local water scientists and learn more about these careers.

Students gain confidence in their science skills, learn more about the quality and health of the Rock River, and have a better understanding of how they can make a difference in their world.

Participants must bring old shoes for use in the water, a change of clothes, a towel, and a plastic bag for wet and dirty items as we will be exploring wetlands!

  • Grades: 8-12
  • Number students:  20
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Blackhawk Technical College
    Main Campus
    6004 S. County Rd. G
    Janesville

Partner:
Blackhawk Technical College

Instructors:
Rob Balsamo

Students will be introduced to the Fire Fighters and EMS careers and what education is needed for these careers, and will practice skills related to Firefighting and EMS.

Activities include Airway management, bleeding control, searching for victims, using an extinguisher, putting out a car fire and more

June 18, 2025

Rock Stars:
An Intro to Geology

  • Grades: 9-12
  • Number students:  20
  • Times: 9:00-12:00
  • Location:
    Sanger Center for the Sciences
    Beloit College

Partner:
Beloit College

Instructor:
Jay Zambito
Associate Professor of Geology

Get ready to explore the Earth beneath your feet!

This summer academy will introduce students to the fascinating world of geology, where they’ll learn how geologists, environmental scientists, and engineers study the planet to understand its history, structure, and natural processes.

Through engaging, interactive activities, they’ll discover how to identify minerals, rocks, and fossils while applying the scientific method to real-world challenges.

June 24, 25, 2025

Culinary 2 (High School)

  • Grades: 9-12
  • Number students:  12
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Blackhawk Technical College
    Main Campus
    6004 S. County Rd. G
    Janesville

Partner:
Blackhawk Technical College

Instructor:
Chef Robert Patrick
Chef Hakim Salaam

High school students, are you ready to take your cooking skills to the next level?

Join our culinary summer academy and master the craft of cooking and food preparation while creating delicious dishes you can actually enjoy!

This class is perfect for those who want to explore the world of culinary arts, learn new techniques, and have fun making meals from scratch.

Whether you’re a beginner or have some kitchen experience, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to become a pro in the kitchen.

REQUIREMENTS:

Closed toe shoes required, no sandals or Crocs etc.

  • Grades: 9-12
  • Number students: 15
  • Times: 9:00-3:00 pm
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Hendricks CareerTek

Partner:
CBI Bank & Trust

Instructor:

Francisca Reyna
Susan Day
Kelly Bosen

Now is the perfect time to take control of your finances and set yourself up for success!

In this summer academy, teenagers will learn the essential skills to manage money effectively and make informed financial decisions. From creating a realistic budget to setting achievable goals and building your savings, this course will provide you with the tools you need to succeed financially.

You’ll also discover how taxes, interest rates, and charitable donations impact your financial journey.

June 26, 2025

Medical Expo

  • Grades: 8-12
  • Number students: 40
  • Times: 9:00-2:00
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Hendricks CareerTek

Partners:

Badger Veterinary Hospital

Blackhawk Technical College

Beloit Health System

Do you see a healthcare career in your future? Join us for an exciting Medical Expo Academy, where you’ll have the unique opportunity to meet and interact with professionals from various medical fields. Students will walk-away with information about nursing, veterinary care, respiratory therapy, dental care, mental health wellness and surgical roles! You’ll get firsthand healthcare insight, exposing you to different areas that you might never have even thought of!

This immersive experience goes beyond just listening—you’ll also participate in hands-on activities within each area that will give you a glimpse into real-world medical skills and procedures. Come explore the world of medicine and take the first step toward your future in healthcare!

July 8,9, 2025

Construction

  • Grades: 8-12
  • Number students:  12
  • Times: 9:00-12:00
  • Location:
    Hendricks CareerTek

Partner:

CCI | Corporate Contractors Inc.

Instructor:
Will Davis

Students enrolled in the Construction Academy will spend their time learning about measurement, machine and tool safety, and building techniques used in construction. They will learn how to properly use hand and power tools, techniques for assembling construction materials while completing a fun project. Students will be given a tour of an actual construction work site.

July 8, 9, 10, 2025

Farm to Table

  • Grades: 6-12
  • Number students:  20
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Welty Environmantal Center
    1201 W. Big Hill Rd
    Beloit

Partner:
Welty Environmental Center logo

Instructor:
Elle Schraufnagel
Madisen Wendrick
Pam Garland-Gjestson

Delve deep into where our food comes from!

Come to Welty to learn from professionals in different sectors of agriculture and food sciences.We will get our hands dirty learning all about soil and then clean up to make delicious food from our local resources.

Participants must be prepared to spend time outdoors (i.e., sunscreen, bug spray, long pants, close-toed shoes) and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated!

July 17, 24, 31, August 7 2025

Build Your Own – Board Game

  • Grades: 9-12
  • Number students:  12
  • Times: 9:00-12:00
  • Location:
    Hendricks CareerTek

Instructor:
Will Davis

We’re thrilled to announce a special pop-up summer academy where students will have the fantastic opportunity to dive into the world of product design and product engineering!
 
In this hands-on program, students will be challenged to create innovative new components for their favorite classic board games. They can choose any board game they love and then reimagine and recreate its various elements, from the game pieces themselves to other components and even the game board.
 
To bring their creative visions to life, students will gain practical experience using industry-standard CAD/CAM software, 3D printers, desktop CNC mills, and a laser engraver.
 
**Please note:** The focus of this academy is on designing and producing new components for existing board games. Students will not be expected to create entirely new games from the ground up.
 
We believe this academy will be a unique and engaging way for students to explore their creativity and develop valuable technical skills.

  • Grades: 8-12
  • Number students:  10
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch provided)
  • Location:
    Blackhawk Technical College
    Main Campus
    6004 S. County Rd. G
    Janesville

Partner:

Blackhawk Technical College

Instructor:
Julio Negron

Students will have fun collabrating as they perform critical thinking to solve problems using diagnostic techniques.

They will become familiar with tools and equipment that are used in the automotive industry, and will experience fun, hands-on activities. Student teams will compete to rotate tires in a specific order with each student taking a tire off and remounting the tire in a different position on the vehicle.

Using a scan tool, students will retrieve an engine code from a vihicle and diagnose the code. Student will receive a tour of an Electric Vehicle build and take a ride in the high torque, tire spinning vehicle as it rolls around the track

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Closed toe shoes required, no sandals or Crocs etc.
  • No loose clothes or hoodie strings that can get caught in moving parts.
  • Tie back long hair.

July 15, 2025

Brain Skills for a Law Enforcement Officer

  • Grades: 7-12
  • Number students:  15
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Blackhawk Technical College
    Main Campus
    6004 S. County Rd. G
    Janesville

Partner:

Blackhawk Technical College

Instructor:
Troy Egger

The activities will be designed to show students a more in-depth view of what skills are needed to be a law enforcement officers.

While many people see officers driving squad cars and performing other tactical skills, it is the critical thinking, decision making, observation skills, and creative problem solving that are the skills most often used by modern day law enforcement officers.

REQUIREMENTS:
Closed toe shoes required, no sandals or Crocs etc.

July 15, 2025

Space & Style

  • Grades: 9-12
  • Number students: 12
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch provided)
  • Location:
    Hendricks CareerTek

Partner:

Marling Lumber & Homeworks

Instructor:
Sandy Harshaw
Danielle Nelson
Kelly Bosen

If you’ve ever wondered how to transform a room into a stylish and functional space, this summer academy is for you!

Students will learn the basics of interior design, from creating the perfect room layout to crafting a vision board that reflects a unique style.

Dive into key design elements like color, texture, and pattern, and discover how to tie all these elements together to create a harmonious and stunning space.

Whether you’re considering a career in design or just want to learn more, this academy will help you see how to turn any space into something special.

July 16, 23, 2025

CAD/3D Printing

  • Grades: 6-9
  • Number students:  10
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Hendricks CareerTek

Partner:

Instructor:
Will Davis

The CAD/3D printing summer academy will be an introduction to a 3D CAD program (TinkerCAD) and how to operate and use a Dremel 3D45 Printer.

Students will learn machine setup and safety, how to use a 3D slicer program, and the basics of 3D modeling. Students will have the ability to create and 3D print several different models.

  • Grades: 9-12
  • Number students:  12
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Blackhawk Technical College
    Main Campus
    6004 S. County Rd. G
    Janesville

Partner:
Blackhawk Technical College

Instructor:
Tony Jordan

Students will get to explore different areas that the HVAC/R industry has to offer through a variety of hands-on activities: Soldering, brazing, annealing, bending copper, fabricating ductwork, gas piping a furnace.

Students will test the operation of a residential HVAC System and recover/evacuate and charge a residential AC system. Students participating for the first time will get to explore different areas that the HVAC/R industry has to offer through a variety of hands-on activities.

Those who have participated in the past will get the above and a chance to work on a level 2 project.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Closed toe shoes required, no sandals or Crocs etc.
  • No loose clothes or hoodie strings that can get caught in moving parts.

July 17, 2025

Cosmetology

  • Grades: 9-12
  • Number students:  12
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch provided)
  • Location:
    Hendricks CareerTek

Partners:

First Class Cosmetology School logo

WM Dayspa Salon

Students will participate in an exciting hands-on academy where they will get to hear from real professionals about the various fields of cosmetology including hair, makeup and nails.

Then students will get the opportunity to engage with those industry experts while practicing the various techniques. They will end the day visiting a local cosmetology school right here in our community where they will learn about the programs offered and get the chance to see services happening first hand!

This is perfect for anyone interested in a career in cosmetology or anyone who simply loves the beauty industry!

July 22, 2025

Imagin-AI-tion Learning Lab

  • Grades: 6-9
  • Number students:  15
  • Times: 9:00-1:00
    (lunch provided)
  • Location:
    Hendricks CareerTek

Partner:

Instructor:
Mickey Chavannes

Ready to dive into the world of AI? Join us for a fun and interactive experience where you’ll explore how artificial intelligence can be used in creative and productive ways. You’ll explore the benefits of AI and the ethical side of AI. You will use AI to create visuals and a story that you will virtually share with the world! Get ready to see how AI can bring your imagination to life!

REQUIREMENT:
Students will need to come with a personal (not school because of firewalls) GMAIL address that they know the password to.

  • Grades: 7-10
  • Number students:  15
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch provided)
  • Location:
    Blackhawk Technical College
    Main Campus
    6004 S. County Rd. G
    Janesville

Partner:

Blackhawk Technical College

Instructor:
Dave Rodden

Students participating for the first time will be introduced to Metal Fabrication and Gas Metal Arc Welding (MIG) and will take part in safety briefing, designing, and fabrication.

Students who have participated in the past, will get the above and a chance to work on a level 2 project.

July 24, 2025

Cooking with Science

  • Grades: 8-12
  • Number students:  20
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch provided)
  • Location:
    Hendricks CareerTek

Partner:

Kerry Ingredients Logo

Instructor:
Paige Freyr
Chef Hernan Angarita
Chef Christophe Le Metayer

Join a Flavorist: Paige Freyr, and Culinary Experts: Chef Hernan Angarita and Chef Christophe Le Metayer to discuss how we blend culinary science and chemistry in and out of the kitchen.

Playing with your food has never tasted so good!
From developing flavors for large food companies to showing off culinary skills, we’ll have a fun day exploring around the kitchen and tasting our inventions! Featuring “The Elements of a Great Sandwich” activity and learning how to become a “Modern Day Willy Wonka”!

July 29, 30, 2025

Brand Builders:
Marketing in Action

  • Grades: 9-12
  • Number students:  12
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch provided)
  • Location:
    Hendricks CareerTek

Partner:

YMCA logo

Instructors:
Danielle Marx
Rebekah Evans
Kelly Bosen
Will Davis

Students will be part of a dynamic marketing team to help promote a youth pickleball league.

They’ll create an awesome branding kit, dive into different marketing roles, and pitch their creative ideas in an exciting presentation!

And the best part? They’ll wrap up the experience by learning how to play pickleball!

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Sneakers are required on day 2. No sandals or Crocs etc.
  • Students will need a personal (not school) email address that they can use

July 29, 2025

Forge the Future

  • Grades: 8-10
    Students must be
    between the ages
    of 13-16
  • Number students:  15
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch provided)
  • Location:
    Blackhawk Technical College
    Main Campus
    6004 S. County Rd. G
    Janesville

Partner:

Blackhawk Technical College

Scot Forge

Instructor:
Various Blackhawk Technical College staff
Scot Forge staff

Explore the world of forging through the Forge the Future Summer Academy.

Students will be able to create their own forging by participating in STEAM and team-building activities. After learning about forging and its applications, students will have the opportunity to tour Scot Forge and see large-scale forging in action!

Students will begin and end the day at BTC, but during the day will be shuttled to Scot Forge for an industry tour.

REQUIREMENTS

  • Closed toe shoes required, no sandals or Crocs etc.

August 5, 6, 7, 2025

Ethical Hacking & Coding

  • Grades: 6-12
  • Number students:  12
  • Times: 9:00-3:00
    (lunch included)
  • Location:
    Hendricks CareerTek

Instructor:

Brandon White

Students will dive into the world of ethical computer hacking, explore cybersecurity tools, and learn to code with their instructor, a former hacker, data security expert, and software engineer.

They will learn to identify the patterns and behavior of the different types of malware and hear stories of world-renowned hackers. They will also code their own introductory software in real world programming languages and be shown the tactics that engineers at tech companies use to ensure the security of their products and customer information.

Demos will showcase the tools that security researchers use to identify vulnerabilities and protect systems against malware, inspect the construction behind the dark web and learn how it is used for good and bad, and the instructor will stage an attack on his own servers to show how companies apply ethical hacking to improve their security.

Students will leave with the knowledge on how to protect their own personal data and devices from malware, an understanding of the inner workings of computer software and the internet, and will develop skills to be able to continue writing code at home. No prior coding experience is required.

© Copyright 2020 - Hendricks CareerTek Site Design by Resonate   Resonate Web Marketing  |   Log in