Railway Safety Summer Camps
2025 UTCRS STEM Summer Camps
We believe that learning should be fun, exciting, and filled with opportunities to explore the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Hosted by the University Transportation Center for Railway Safety (UTCRS) at UTRGV, our camps introduce students to the fascinating field of transportation engineering—where problem-solving, creativity, and technology come together to make railway systems safer and more efficient.
Each summer, we welcome over 1,000 K-12 students from across the region to experience hands-on STEM activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire future innovators. From building LEGO robotics and experimenting with magnetic levitation to exploring real-world transportation challenges, our campers engage in interactive projects that help them develop critical thinking skills while having a blast!
We are proud to be part of a nationwide effort to promote STEM education and provide young minds—especially those from traditionally underrepresented groups—with opportunities to discover exciting careers in engineering and transportation. Plus, for educators, our Research Experience for Teachers (RET) Program offers specialized training and workshops to bring these engaging STEM concepts into classrooms.
Since 2014, our camps have grown to become the largest STEM camps ever held at UTRGV and the largest transportation-related STEM camps in the nation (recognized by the U.S. Department of Transportation). This is made possible through the dedication of our university partners, expert instructors, and more than 26 local school districts who share our mission of inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders.
We invite you to join us this summer for an unforgettable learning adventure! Whether your child is a budding engineer, a curious scientist, or simply loves to explore and create, the UTCRS STEM Summer Camps provide an engaging, safe, and welcoming environment where every student can thrive.
Schedule
The 2025 UTCRS STEM Summer Camps consist of separate, one-week sessions, with each week covering the same content. Participants may register for one or more of the following weeks:
Final Competition
Date: Friday, June 27, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT
Location: UTRGV Edinburg Campus Education Complex (EEDUC)
Closing Ceremony
Date: Friday, June 27, 2025
Time: 6:00 - 7:15 PM CDT
Location: UTRGV Edinburg Student Union (ESTUN)
UTRGV Participant Requirements
Once selected, parents/guardians must complete and submit the UTRGV Youth Summer Camps Mandatory Participant Forms (one per child). These forms are available in English and Spanish on the registration platform located by following the QR Code or link provided below.
Parent Orientation Sessions
The University Transportation Center for Railway Safety (UTCRS) will host three Parent Orientation Sessions to provide information on camp activities and required forms. While attendance is not mandatory, we strongly encourage parents/guardians to attend one of the following sessions:
📍 Location
Engineering Building - Engineering Auditorium EENGR 1.300
(Building No. 21 in the UTRGV Edinburg Campus Map)
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg, TX 78539
📅 Session Dates & Times
Application & Selection
District-Sponsored Students
Students from participating Rio Grande Valley (RGV) school districts will be selected for the 2025 UTCRS STEM Summer Camps based on criteria set by their respective school districts.
To apply, please contact your School District Superintendent’s Office or school officials for application and registration details.
Individual Applicants
If your child’s school district is not officially participating, they may still be considered for a spot based on availability.
✅ How to Apply:
- Complete the application form by scanning the QR code below.
- Submit payment as indicated.
Important Information
- Before submitting payment, check with your school district to see if it has reserved funded spots through an interlocal agreement with UTRGV. School districts set their own selection criteria and may not share reserved spots.
- Registration is only complete once all required forms and payment (if applicable) have been received.
Registration Link: https://apps.ideal-logic.com/utrgvk12?key=K97B-SQGC5_WPG5-2H2G_1c84b65faa1e
Questions?
📞 Call: (956) 665-8164
📧 Email: railwaysafety@utrgv.edu
We look forward to seeing you at the 2025 UTCRS STEM Summer Camps!