Summer Camps
Griffiss Institute proudly facilitates a variety of camps held during the summer months for grades 3-12. Programs are centered on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Students will engage in hands-on, interactive learning through a combination of traditional lecture and creative experimentation.
Upcoming Camps:
Animation
Dates: Tuesday, June 30 – Thursday July 2, 2026
Time: 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Location: Innovare Advancement Center
Grades: 6-9
STEM Topic(s): Biology & Life Science, Space & Physics, Engineering & Robotics, Ocean & Environmental Science
Cost: $220 ($198 Early Bird)
When people hear “animation,” they often think of cartoons, but in STEM Animation, students use it as a powerful tool to explore how the world works. By modeling real systems through movement, timing, and structure, students test ideas, solve problems, and bring complex or invisible concepts to life—whether examining how animals move, how gravity affects motion, or what makes a robot stable. Creativity supports the process, but the focus is on building observation, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills at the core of science and engineering.
The Air Force Research Lab, with support from the Griffiss Institute, is proudly sponsoring the AFRL/RI STEM Drone Camp.
Drones
Students focus on Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) concepts that combine classroom learning with hands-on experience. Students assemble a quadcopter and learn the science of aerodynamics and radio-controlled vehicles while focusing on the safety of use (FAA’s Know Before You Fly Initiative). At the end of the week, students fly their drones through an obstacle course.
The Air Force Research Lab, with support from the Griffiss Institute, is proudly sponsoring the AFRL/RI STEM Drone Camp.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON!
STEM Circuit - Little Falls
Dates: July 6 – 10; July 13 – 17; July 20 – 24; July 27 – 31; August 3 -7, August 10 – 14
Time: 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Location: TBA
Grades: 3-5
STEM Topic(s): Coding, Robotics, Drones, Quantum, Cyber Security, Entrepreneurship
Cost: $275/week
STEM Circuit at Little Falls consists of 6 curated STEM topics designed to engage students in grades 3-5th. Each week focuses on a different subject as follows:
July 6 - 10: Coding with Minecraft
Turn screen time into learning time! In this program, students use Minecraft as an engaging tool to learn the basics of computer coding and logical thinking. Kids will design worlds, solve puzzles, and complete challenges by using block‑based coding concepts like sequencing, loops, and commands – bringing their creations to life one line of code at a time. It’s the perfect blend of creativity, problem‑solving, and fun!
July 13 - 17: Robotics
Robotics brings science and engineering to life! Students will build, program, and test robots while learning how motors, sensors, and simple code work together. Through team challenges and problem‑solving missions, kids will explore engineering concepts, learn to troubleshoot, and gain confidence as they watch their robots move, react, and complete tasks.
July 20 - 24: Drones
Ready for takeoff! In the Drones program, students learn how drones fly, how pilots control them, and how they’re used in the real world – from photography to search and rescue. Kids will explore flight mechanics, safety, and navigation while practicing hands‑on piloting skills through guided challenges and fun missions. This program encourages focus, coordination, and critical thinking.
July 27 - 31: Cyber Hack-a-thon
Can you crack the code? Students step into the role of cyber detectives as they solve digital puzzles, uncover clues, and learn how information is protected online. This program introduces cybersecurity concepts like passwords, encryption, and safe online behavior through interactive games and team challenges. It’s a fun, empowering way to build problem‑solving skills and digital awareness.
August 3 - 7: Quantum Mechanics
Big ideas for curious minds! This program introduces students to the fascinating world of quantum mechanics using simple, kid‑friendly experiments and analogies. Kids will explore concepts like light, energy, and waves through hands‑on activities and demonstrations that make complex science understandable and exciting. No advanced math required – just curiosity and imagination.
August 10 - 14: Entrepreneurship
Have a great idea? Turn it into a plan! In Entrepreneurship, students become young innovators as they brainstorm products, design simple business plans, and learn how ideas turn into real‑world solutions. Kids will practice teamwork, creativity, and communication while developing confidence in presenting their ideas. This program empowers students to think like problem‑solvers and leaders.
Students may be enrolled in multiple STEM Circuit programs. Parents may also choose to only enroll their student for one week. When registering for this program, be sure to choose the desired programs and locations before checking out.
STEM Circuit - Verona
Dates: July 6 – 10; July 13 – 17; July 20 – 24; July 27 – 31; August 3 -7, August 10 – 14
Time: 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Location: TBA
Grades: 3-5
STEM Topic(s): Coding, Robotics, Drones, Quantum, Cyber Security, Entrepreneurship
Cost: $275/week
STEM Circuit at VVS consists of 6 curated STEM topics designed to engage students in grades 3-5th. Each week focuses on a different subject as follows:
July 6 - 10: Cyber Hack-a-thon
Can you crack the code? Students step into the role of cyber detectives as they solve digital puzzles, uncover clues, and learn how information is protected online. This program introduces cybersecurity concepts like passwords, encryption, and safe online behavior through interactive games and team challenges. It’s a fun, empowering way to build problem‑solving skills and digital awareness.
August 13 - 17: Quantum Mechanics
Big ideas for curious minds! This program introduces students to the fascinating world of quantum mechanics using simple, kid‑friendly experiments and analogies. Kids will explore concepts like light, energy, and waves through hands‑on activities and demonstrations that make complex science understandable and exciting. No advanced math required – just curiosity and imagination.
July 20 - 24: Entrepreneurship
Have a great idea? Turn it into a plan! In Entrepreneurship, students become young innovators as they brainstorm products, design simple business plans, and learn how ideas turn into real‑world solutions. Kids will practice teamwork, creativity, and communication while developing confidence in presenting their ideas. This program empowers students to think like problem‑solvers and leaders.
July 27 - 31: Coding with Minecraft
Turn screen time into learning time! In this program, students use Minecraft as an engaging tool to learn the basics of computer coding and logical thinking. Kids will design worlds, solve puzzles, and complete challenges by using block‑based coding concepts like sequencing, loops, and commands – bringing their creations to life one line of code at a time. It’s the perfect blend of creativity, problem‑solving, and fun!
August 3 - 7: Robotics
Robotics brings science and engineering to life! Students will build, program, and test robots while learning how motors, sensors, and simple code work together. Through team challenges and problem‑solving missions, kids will explore engineering concepts, learn to troubleshoot, and gain confidence as they watch their robots move, react, and complete tasks.
August 10 - 14: Drones
Ready for takeoff! In the Drones program, students learn how drones fly, how pilots control them, and how they’re used in the real world – from photography to search and rescue. Kids will explore flight mechanics, safety, and navigation while practicing hands‑on piloting skills through guided challenges and fun missions. This program encourages focus, coordination, and critical thinking.
Students may be enrolled in multiple STEM Circuit programs. Parents may also choose to only enroll their student for one week. When registering for this program, be sure to choose the desired programs and locations before checking out.
Arduino
Dates: Monday, July 13 – Thursday, July 16, 2026
Time: 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Location: Innovare Advancement Center
Grades: 9-12
STEM Topic(s): Computer Engineering
Cost: FREE
Students bring gadgets of all sorts to life with computer engineering hardware and software. Using an Arduino kit with a multitude of sensors and electronic components, they assemble a system that they will then program with the Arduino IDE’s C++-based language. Students gain a good understanding of introductory computer engineering concepts.
The Air Force Research Lab, with support from the Griffiss Institute, is proudly sponsoring the AFRL/RI STEM Arduino Camp.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON!
Sphero
Dates: Tuesday, July 14 – Thursday, July 16, 2026
Time: 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Location: Innovare Advancement Center
Grades: 3-5
STEM Topic(s): Coding, Programming
Cost: FREE
Sphero Camp introduces young students to the basic principles of programming. They learn to program and drive a Sphero Bolt. Students learn through Design Engineering Challenges, Art Exploration, and Games. Programming concepts they learn include move, lights, if/then, and random number generator.
The Air Force Research Lab, with support from the Griffiss Institute, is proudly sponsoring the AFRL/RI STEM Sphero Camp.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON!
Engineering
Dates: Tuesday, July 21 – Friday, July 24, 2026
Time: 9:00AM – 4:00PM (T-Th); 9:00AM – 12:00PM (F)
Location: Innovare Advancement Center
Grades: 6-8
STEM Topic(s): Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering
Cost: FREE
This camp is designed to engage students in learning basic principles of mechanical and electrical engineering by designing, building, testing, and redesigning their own working devices. The curriculum combines guided lab investigations with fun, open-ended design challenges, emphasizing hands-on experimentation in solving practical engineering problems through creativity and the application of scientific ideas. Students work in pairs using recycled or inexpensive craft materials and simple electrical components to build and test their own creations.
The Air Force Research Lab, with support from the Griffiss Institute, is proudly sponsoring the AFRL/RI STEM Engineering Camp.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON!
Principles of Flight 2
Dates: Monday, August 3, 2026
Time: 9:00AM – 3:30PM
Location: Innovare Advancement Center
Grades: 8-12
STEM Topic(s): Technology, Physics
Cost: FREE
Students conduct aircraft flight testing in a manner similar to real flight test centers. They assess expected outcomes, plan and conduct tests, and collect and analyze data to determine if their hypothesis was proven correct or not. Students conduct takeoff testing by varying airplane gross weight and observe the effects on runway takeoff distance.
The Air Force Research Lab, with support from the Griffiss Institute, is proudly sponsoring the AFRL/RI STEM Principles of Flight Camp.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON!
Cyber
Dates: Monday, August 3 – Friday, August 7, 2026
Time: 9:00AM – 3:30PM (M-Th); 9:00AM – 12:00PM (F)
Location: Innovare Advancement Center
Grades: 9-12
STEM Topic(s): Cyber Security
Cost: FREE
*This camp ends at noon on August 1*
Students will get to learn the basic concepts of cyber security. Learn about the Linux operating system, networking, computer administration, malware, and basic scripting, with a security focus. The camp encourages critical thinking, applied learning, engineering methods, and reasoning. Cyber Camp is great for those students who want to get a taste of computer/IT technology and feel what it is like to manage a computer system.
Principles of Flight 2
Dates: Friday, August 7, 2026
Time: 9:00AM – 3:30PM
Location: Innovare Advancement Center
Grades: 8-12
STEM Topic(s): Technology, Physics
Cost: FREE
Students conduct aircraft flight testing in a manner similar to real flight test centers. They assess expected outcomes, plan and conduct tests, and collect and analyze data to determine if their hypothesis was proven correct or not. Students conduct takeoff testing by varying airplane gross weight and observe the effects on runway takeoff distance.
The Air Force Research Lab, with support from the Griffiss Institute, is proudly sponsoring the AFRL/RI STEM Principles of Flight Camp.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON!
Principles of Flight 1
Dates: Monday, August 10, 2026
Time: 9:00AM – 2:00PM
Location: Innovare Advancement Center
Grades: 4-7
STEM Topic(s): Technology, Physics
Cost: FREE
Students will learn how airplanes fly using Newton’s Laws of Motion, Bernoulli’s equation, and cover the Four Forces of Flight. Students will then see how they are applied by flying balsa aircraft and observing at actual aircraft.
The Air Force Research Lab, with support from the Griffiss Institute, is proudly sponsoring the AFRL/RI STEM Principles of Flight Camp.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON!
Quantum
Dates: Monday, August 10 – Friday, August 14, 2026
Time: 9:00AM – 3:00PM (M-Th); 9:00AM – 12:00PM (F)
Location: Innovare Advancement Center
Grades: 9-12
STEM Topic(s): Quantum, Physics
Cost: FREE
Students learn about the physics and engineering of quantum experimentation and witness cutting-edge research. They will build lasers, learn about superconductivity, and watch tiny, charged atoms (ions) become trapped before their very eyes. Experience quantum levitation, learn how to speak the language of a quantum computer, and visit a state-of-the-art quantum laboratory to observe quantum mechanics in action.
The Air Force Research Lab, with support from the Griffiss Institute, is proudly sponsoring the AFRL/RI STEM Quantum Camp.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON!
LEGO® Robotics
Dates: Monday, August 10 – Friday, August 14, 2026
Time: 9:00AM -3:00PM (M-Th); 9:00AM – 12:00PM (F)
Location: Innovare Advancement Center
Grades: 5-6
STEM Topic(s): Robotics, Engineering
Cost: FREE
Students learn how to command robots to do their bidding. But first, students must speak their robot’s native language. Over the course of 5 days, students will design and build their robot, program it to solve challenges on a LEGO game board and fix their robot’s code, or even attachments when it inevitably does not do what they expected it to do the first time.
The Air Force Research Lab, with support from the Griffiss Institute, is proudly sponsoring the AFRL/RI STEM LEGO Camp.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON!
Principles of Flight 1
Dates: Friday, August 14, 2026
Time: 9:00AM – 2:00PM
Location: Innovare Advancement Center
Grades: 4-7
STEM Topic(s): Technology, Physics
Cost: FREE
Students will learn how airplanes fly using Newton’s Laws of Motion, Bernoulli’s equation, and cover the Four Forces of Flight. Students will then see how they are applied by flying balsa aircraft and observing at actual aircraft.
The Air Force Research Lab, with support from the Griffiss Institute, is proudly sponsoring the AFRL/RI STEM Principles of Flight Camp.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON!
Sphero Camp
Dates: Tuesday, August 18 – Thursday, August 20, 2026
Time: 9:00AM – 12:00PM
Location: Innovare Advancement Center
Grades: 3-5
STEM Topic(s): Coding, Programming
Cost: FREE
Sphero Camp introduces young students to the basic principles of programming. They learn to program and drive a Sphero Bolt. Students learn through Design Engineering Challenges, Art Exploration, and Games. Programming concepts they learn include move, lights, if/then, and random number generator.
The Air Force Research Lab, with support from the Griffiss Institute, is proudly sponsoring the AFRL/RI STEM Sphero Camp.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON!
Principles of Flight 1
Dates: Friday, August 21, 2026
Time: 9:00AM – 2:00PM
Location: Innovare Advancement Center
Grades: 4-7
STEM Topic(s): Technology, Physics
Cost: FREE
Students will learn how airplanes fly using Newton’s Laws of Motion, Bernoulli’s equation, and cover the Four Forces of Flight. Students will then see how they are applied by flying balsa aircraft and observing at actual aircraft.
The Air Force Research Lab, with support from the Griffiss Institute, is proudly sponsoring the AFRL/RI STEM Principles of Flight Camp.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON!
Principles of Flight 1
Dates: Monday, August 17, 2026
Time: 9:00AM – 2:00PM
Location: Innovare Advancement Center
Grades: 4-7
STEM Topic(s): Technology, Physics
Cost: FREE
Students will learn how airplanes fly using Newton’s Laws of Motion, Bernoulli’s equation, and cover the Four Forces of Flight. Students will then see how they are applied by flying balsa aircraft and observing at actual aircraft.
The Air Force Research Lab, with support from the Griffiss Institute, is proudly sponsoring the AFRL/RI STEM Principles of Flight Camp.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON!
LEGO® Robotics
Dates: Monday, July 28 – Friday, August 1
Time: 9:00AM -3:00PM
Grades: 5-6
Max Class Size: 12
Location: NTROPEE
*This camp ends at noon on August 1*
Students learn how to command robots to do their bidding. But first, students must speak their robot’s native language. Over the course of 5 days, students will design and build their robot, program it to solve challenges on a LEGO game board and fix their robot’s code, or even attachments when it inevitably does not do what they expected it to do the first time.
LEGO® Robotics
Dates: Monday, August 4 – Friday, August 8
Time: 8:00AM – 12:00PM
Grades: 5-8
Max Class Size: 12
Location: SUNY Poly
Students learn how to command robots to do their bidding. But first, students must speak their robot’s native language. Over the course of 5 days, students will design and build their robot, program it to solve challenges on a LEGO game board and fix their robot’s code, or even attachments when it inevitably does not do what they expected it to do the first time.
