Course Information
Ignite (in-person)
We are excited to share information about our revamped exploratory program, Ignite. Each session is taught by WPI faculty with hands-on projects for students to explore. If you’re looking for summer programs for rising 6, 7, and 8th graders, be sure to explore Ignite. Course descriptions for summer 2026 programs will be added below as they are received. All courses should be finalized by mid-December.
Audience: Rising 6, 7, and 8th graders
Registration Deadline: April 30, 2026
Program Dates:
- July 6 - 10, 2026
- July 13 - 17, 2026
- July 20 - 24, 2026
- July 27 - 31, 2026
Instruction Time: 9:00am - 4:00pm
Cost: $695 per week
Summer 2026 Course Descriptions
Intro to 3D Printing & Additive Manufacturing - Week 1
In this course, students will learn core principles of additive manufacturing and safe operation of 3D printers. They will then design and print interactive parts and simple mechanisms, building confidence in rapid prototyping from concept to physical prototype.
Space Exploration: Journey Beyond Earth - Weeks 1 & 2
In this immersive weeklong course, students will journey through the wonders of our solar system - exploring planets, dwarf planets and their moons, rockets, astronauts, space environment, and the science that makes space travel possible. Through hands-on experiments, captivating mission stories, and interactive tools that blend math and multimedia, participants will discover how humanity explores the Moon, Mars, and even the distant edges of the universe. Come ready with curiosity, imagination, and a spirit of adventure. The universe awaits!
LEGO Robotics - Weeks 2 & 3
In this course, students will use LEGO Robotics kits to explore robotics, coding, and mechanical design. Participants will work in small groups to expand their knowledge, strategize, and achieve points in a game. The week will culminate in a competition where teams show off their robots and what they have learned.
This course is designed for students who have little to no experience with robotics or coding; however, students with any and all levels of experience are welcome to register.
Drone Discovery Lab - Week 3
The Ignite Drone Summer Program is a week-long, full-day course designed to introduce to the exciting world of drones and aerial robotics. This hands-on program lets students learn how drones work, practice flying mini quadcopters, and even program autonomous drone missions. Each day, students will engage in fun learning modules – from building simple experiments to coding flight paths. The emphasis is on fun, simple, and educational activities appropriate for middle schoolers, sparking curiosity in STEM through drones.
Brand Builders: Create Your Own Product & Brand - Week 4
This course offers a concept-to-market experience. Students will develop a simple product and the story around it, create brand identity, design packaging, and prepare a mini pitch.
Young Entrepreneurs Studio - Week 4
This one-week Entrepreneurship Program introduces the foundations of entrepreneurship through hands-on, highly interactive activities designed for younger learners. Across five full days, students explore what it means to think like an entrepreneur by identifying everyday problems, brainstorming creative solutions, and developing simple product ideas. Students engage in structured games, guided discussions, pitching sessions, customer role-play interviews, and simplified tools such as a beginner-friendly Lean Canvas and value proposition exercises.
By the end of the program, students will leave with a stronger entrepreneurial mindset, improved problem-solving skills, and greater confidence in turning ideas into action.
*If a course is not listed on the registration dropdown menu, it has reached its capacity and is no longer accepting registrants. WPI reserves the right to cancel any session, in which case students could be reassigned to a different session or provided a refund.