Every year, students with a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) descend upon the Yard for a chance to partake in an Annapolis summer camp unlike any other. We are thrilled to share a recap of the highly successful 2026 USNA Summer STEM Camp, which provided learning experiences and opportunities for growth to rising ninth-, tenth-, and eleventh-grade high school students from across the country. Let’s take a look!
Related: Summer Step Up at the Academy: USNA Summer Seminar and STEM Programs
Right when many high schools finished for the year this spring, the USNA STEM Center and the Office of Admissions welcomed 959 high school students to the 2026 USNA Summer STEM Program. Selected through a rigorous application process, these students demonstrated a strong interest in STEM, and were invited to spend a week tackling problem-solving, exploratory learning, critical thinking, and team-building activities.
Not only does this USNA Summer STEM program provide an excellent opportunity for students to learn STEM concepts from top Naval Academy faculty and midshipmen in state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories, it also gives them a rare sneak peak at life at the Academy, with the chance to form valuable connections and better understand what to expect if they decide to apply to the Academy.
Related: How to Apply to the Naval Academy: A Parent and Teen Guide
During the three sessions that occurred between late May and mid-June, each day was devoted to exciting and relevant STEM topics, and the curriculum of 21 modules covered a wide range of material, including:
Characteristics of Rocket Flight: Students learned about the principles of rocket flight, including propulsion, aerodynamics, and trajectory analysis.
Machine Learning: Participants explored the basics of machine learning algorithms and their applications in various fields.
Biotechnology: This topic introduced students to the intersection of biology and technology, highlighting innovations in medical and agricultural fields.
Aquaculture Engineering: Students examined engineering solutions for sustainable fish farming and water management.
DIY Wireless Data Transfer: Participants engaged in hands-on projects to understand the principles and technology behind wireless communication.
Rotary Wing Dynamics: This subject covered the mechanics and physics of helicopter flight.
Cryptography and Cybersecurity: Students delved into the world of cryptography, learning about encryption methods and cybersecurity principles.
Reverse Engineering: Participants learned how to deconstruct and analyze the design and function of various technologies.
In addition to the academic sessions, students participated in field trips and various team-building activities on the Yard, all designed to foster teamwork, camaraderie, and a deeper connection to the Naval Academy's values. The combination of hands-on learning and interactive activities ensured a well-rounded experience that inspired and motivated these young STEM hopefuls.
One special highlight? The SUPE attended the weekly picnic and spoke to the students, addressing their questions and inspiring them to further explore the vast opportunities available to them at USNA.
These USNA STEM summer programs are made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Office of Naval Research, DoD STEM, and the Naval Academy Foundation. These sponsors play a crucial role in ensuring the STEM programs continue to provide high-quality educational experiences to students.
We are excited to announce that applications for the 2027 Summer STEM program will open in January 2027 (more information will be available here in the future). We encourage all interested students to apply and join us for another transformative week of STEM exploration and learning at the U.S. Naval Academy!
Those interested in the Academy might also consider attending another summer program, the Summer Seminar. This gives rising 12th graders a sneak peak at the full USNA experience, with academic, athletic, and professional pursuits, as well as a chance to start their application journey. Find information here as well, and register early for this June week!
While the U.S. Naval Academy is undoubtedly focused on STEM and recognizes the tremendous benefits of a STEM education, there is something for everyone at the Academy! We invite you to book a USNA tour and explore the Yard to experience firsthand its contributions to history and military leadership. Come be a part of history every day on the Yard.
Every USNA tour, USNA Gift Shop (or Navyonline.com) purchase, and dining experience gives back to the Brigade, so your support benefits those that support our freedom. Profits from these activities fund extracurricular programs such as cultural arts, music, theater, club sports, and more, fostering the all-important teamwork and camaraderie that defines what it means to be a midshipman. Your visit helps these young leaders in multiple ways, giving them the resources they need to develop into well-rounded individuals and the future leaders of the Fleet.
Thank you for your continued support of the Naval Academy, as well as our STEM summer camps and outreach efforts. Together, we’re shaping the future of STEM and inspiring the next generation of innovators and leaders. Join us!