Summer Physics Camp

A two-week free camp for students that focuses on STEM and Energy Security.

June 2-13, 2025.

The 9th annual Summer Physics Camp offers a unique opportunity for young students to explore careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) with STEM professionals. This two-week camp will explore topics related to energy and energy Security (reliable, affordable access to all fuels and energy sources) and offers students a chance to boost their understanding of how STEM improves the world around us through hands on activities, demonstrations, tours, talks and a multiday engineering project.

Students will learn the principles of physics, engineering, bioengineering, chemistry, computer programming and cybersecurity, and will apply their knowledge in a range of  projects. They will also learn about different energy sources, including solar, wind, geothermal and nuclear power, to better understand the challenges faced by our modern society.

In addition to the engaging science, the participants will also learn a broad range of professional skills including how to write a resume, how to apply and interview for a job. They will also explore opportunities available at local colleges and Department of Energy national laboratories such as Sandia National Laboratories and Los Alamos National Laboratory. 

Costs

This summer camp is FREE to students. Daily lunch and snacks will be also provided. Students completing the two week long program will be offered a stipend and the opportunity to be part of the SAGE Journey program.

A limited number of FREE residential spots will be available to selected students that live more than 60 miles away from Santa Fe and are unable to commute to the camp on a daily basis.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be a student living in New Mexico, New Mexico tribal communities or East Hawaii Island.
• Must have completed Algebra I or high-level math course
• Must be able to commit to two-week full participation (Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.).

All students are welcome to apply and one of our goals is to engage those who may not normally consider themselves as potential scientists

How to apply

1. Complete the online application (including a short essay about yourself, your interests and why you think the camp will be impactful to you and your interests).
2. Ask a teacher/counselor to send a reference letter explaining why they think this camp will benefit you to spcyw-nm@lanl.gov
3. Obtain copies of your school transcripts confirming you have Algebra 1 and email them to spcyw-nm@lanl.gov

SAGE Journey

SAGE Mission is to engage curious and passionate students, and empower them to explore a wide range of possibilities for their future. The journey starts in the teen years and requires an open-mind that is willing to see beyond old knowledge and perceptions. The journey can be viewed as an adventure with twists and turns, to be filled with hands-on experiences and personal interactions that teach life lessons. Hosted by professional leaders who share their passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), SAGE builds community, fosters innovation, and sets students on a path to exciting careers, like those they’ll learn about at the Department of Energy’s National Laboratories.

Spread the word

Feel free to download the flyer and print it out to spread the word.

Share your time and expertise: Volunteer at the free physics camp this summer

Success depends on the support of people like you. The Summer Physics Camp will be in person at the New Mexico School for the Arts in Santa Fe, bringing students from across New Mexico together to meet scientists, engineers, technicians, technologists and STEM role models.

The Summer Physics Camp needs volunteers to make an impact on the next generation in STEM, in their communities and in the national security enterprise and mission. The success of the camp depends on people just like you.

There are many ways to volunteer at the camp: you might want to lead several sessions, or an activity, or support an existing activity in a field you are familiar with. You might want to help with logistics or the tour, or want to help with advertising or public relations! All skills are great!

Ways to volunteer:

1. Topic lead : organize several sessions on a specific topic 
2. Session lead: volunteer for one hour, one day (morning or afternoon)
3. Session or topic support: join a session/s and volunteer on already planned activities
4. Logistics support: (design posters, signs, badges, certificates, purchase materials etc)
5. Residential chaperone

Time slots for volunteers are flexible to accommodate different schedules. If you’d like to volunteer at this year’s camp for an hour, half a day or be a topic or session leader, simply fill out the volunteer form and the camp’s organizers will get in touch with you.

Laboratory employees can request Community service hours and get paid to volunteer (up to 32 hours per fiscal year)  through the Community Partnerships Office. Also, this is a great opportunity to get involved in a high-impact outreach effort, which would be an excellent addition to your CV.

Interested in becoming a sponsor?

The success of the Summer Physics Camp depends on our wonderful sponsors. We appreciate the support and do our best in exhibiting their business or organization. Laboratory employees can make personal donations through the LANL Giving Tool to NMC, Inc (include the following note: Teri Thomas-SPCYW).

 Alternatively, you can can be send donations direct to:

New Mexico Consortium
Attn: Teri Thomas-SPCYW
4200 West Jemez Rd, Suite 301
Los Alamos, NM 87544