This summer, the 4th edition of Del Mar's Code Camp unfolded from July 18th to July 22nd within the FEMA Dome at the Del Mar College Windward Campus. Del Mar's Code Camp is an integral component of the college's Youth Program, designed to keep young minds active and engaged during the summer months while fostering their continued education. This particular camp serves as an inspirational initiative aimed at motivating middle school students, to explore STEM disciplines, particularly the realm of computer science.

Throughout the span of a week, participants were immersed in the fundamentals of programming logic and code scripting. They also had the chance to put their newfound knowledge to practical use by constructing and programming robots and drones.

And speaking of drones, MANTIS Lab was naturally a part of the action! During the latter part of the event, MANTIS Lab students, in collaboration with other researchers affiliated with the AI2ES NSF Institute, joined forces with the young participants. MANTIS students had the unique opportunity to introduce these bright minds to the diverse applications of unmanned aircraft systems (UASs) and Lidar-based data. They delved into various sensor types and platforms, providing insights into the groundbreaking work undertaken by the group.

This marked the second occasion where MANTIS Lab participated in such an event, and the experience was gratifying. The genuine enthusiasm witnessed in these young minds within the field was particularly rewarding.

Looking ahead, MANTIS Lab is eager to continue contributing to future editions of the Code Camp, with the goal of inspiring and nurturing the potential of many more young minds in the world of STEM.