A group of middle school students explored key transportation concepts and engaged hands-on with experts, real-world projects, and innovative research vehicles at CTS’s 10th annual National Summer Transportation Institute (NSTI) in July.
Out of 100 applicants, 30 students entering seventh through ninth grades were selected to participate in the free two-week program, which aims to attract the next generation to transportation-related education and careers. The camp is funded by the Federal Highway Administration and CTS and administered by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT).
This year’s activities included conducting a traffic stress design challenge led by staff from CTS’s Accessibility Observatory, checking out the Minnesota State Transportation Center of Excellence’s Career Exploration Trailer, and getting a lesson in transportation safety from AAA. Campers learned all about connected and automated vehicles from The PLUM Catalyst and took a close-up look at the CTS MnCAV Ecosystem automated vehicle.
During a half-day session focused on freight and logistics, students learned about CTS’s 2025 "Unpacking Freight" theme with Deputy Director Gina Baas. They also toured the U of M tunnel system’s package delivery operations with UMarket Services and attended a freight vehicle showcase with the U's Parking and Transportation Services.
In lessons facilitated by MnDOT staff, students experimented with an augmented reality sandbox, flew drones, and explored materials science by making “asphalt” cookies. As part of a session focused on the importance of city planning, campers learned about the Reconnect Rondo initiative and completed their own city planning activity with YEP!
