Technology summer camp expands with help from Google

After a successful first year, the S.C. Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics and Berkeley County schools are hosting an expanded technology camp with help from Google.

The camp, called Innovation Technology & Entrepreneurship Among Middle Schoolers, is a partnership between the schools to teach rising eighth- and ninth-graders skills in computer science, engineering, programming and business.

“Our goal is to inspire and identify future talent and educate these motivated young people about career opportunities in engineering and technology,” said Murray Brockman, president of the Governor’s School.

The Google Inc. charitable giving fund at Tides Foundation gave a $48,430 community grant to fund the camps. This year, there will be two camps, Monday through Thursday and June 28-July 1, with double last year’s students, at 84.

Employees from Google’s data center in Berkeley County will act as mentors and will provide assistance with the camp’s format. They will also work with students to share information about the entrepreneurial philosophies and vision of the company.

“We enjoyed being a part of this endeavor and are proud to be able expand this program this year, giving even more kids the tools and resources to improve these vital skills,” said Eric Wages, Google’s operations manager at the Berkeley County data center.

Students will be able to work on projects using video game creation software, global positioning systems and computer programming applications.

“This program continues to be an excellent opportunity for middle schoolers in Berkeley County to learn about technology and entrepreneurship from a sophisticated technology company like Google,” Brockman said.