Date Posted: June 22, 2026
MONTICELLO, GA — Southern Crescent Technical College recently concluded its VEX EXP Robotics Summer Camp in Monticello, providing middle school students with an engaging, hands-on introduction to robotics, engineering, coding, and problem-solving.
Over four days, seven students from Jasper Middle School participated in immersive STEM learning experiences that challenged them to design, build, program, and compete with robots while developing teamwork, communication, and critical-thinking skills. The camp culminated in a student showcase where participants demonstrated their robots, shared their experiences, and highlighted the skills they developed throughout the week.
“The student showcase highlighted how hands-on STEM experiences can inspire creativity, build confidence, and strengthen problem-solving skills,” said Eleen Herbert, Dean of Academic Affairs for Technical and Industrial Programs at Southern Crescent Technical College.
Throughout the camp, students completed engineering challenges, developed competition strategies, and participated in exciting robot soccer matches. These experiences exposed students to career pathways in engineering, robotics, advanced manufacturing, automation, and other high-demand technical fields while reinforcing the value of STEM education.
Ted Thompson, robotics instructor for the camp, encouraged students to embrace both innovation and individuality as they pursue future opportunities.
“My hope for every student is that you learn to create and build amazing robots—but never become one,” Thompson said. “Stay curious, think for yourself, and find the work that makes you excited to get up each day.”
Southern Crescent Technical College recognizes the importance of strong community partnerships in creating meaningful educational opportunities for students. Special recognition is extended to Jasper Middle School and Mary Tumblin for their partnership and support in making the camp possible.
The VEX Robotics initiative is made possible through the support of public-private partnerships, including investments from Procter & Gamble (P&G) and Amazon. Their continued commitment to STEM education and workforce development is helping SCTC expand robotics programming and inspire the next generation of innovators throughout the region.
As SCTC continues to grow its VEX Robotics initiative across its service area, the College remains committed to providing students with early exposure to emerging technologies and creating pathways to the high-demand careers that are shaping Georgia’s future workforce.
About Southern Crescent Technical College
Southern Crescent Technical College provides accessible, high-quality education and workforce training that empowers students, strengthens communities, and meets the evolving needs of business and industry throughout its eight-county service area.