Summer Activities
GEAR UP SWV summer camps offer more than just fun—they’re a key part of the journey to college and life after high school. These free, hands-on experiences help students build confidence, discover interests, and develop real-world skills. Whether it’s exploring careers, trying something new, or getting a feel for campus life, every camp helps students take the next step toward their goals—and stay on track while school’s out.
Concord Cool Academy: Tracks to the Future
June 16-19, 2026 (Overnight)
An overnight summer camp at Concord University in Athens, WV, including experiences with CoolSpeak and CU professors. Students select from the following career paths:
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🎨 The Creator Track (Fine Arts for artists, performers, and creative thinkers)
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✍️ The Writer Track (Creative Writing for future authors, poets, journalists, and content creators)
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🍎 The Teacher Track (Education for future teachers, coaches, and mentors)
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🏃 The Sports Medicine Track (Athletic Training for future ahtletic trainers or those interested in sports medicine)
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🩺 The Future Nurse Track (Nursing for future nurses and healthcare leaders)
There are also fun activities, including social media/branding, college readiness, and more!
Contact Kristen Williams at [email protected] or (304)384-6305.
Registration opens March 9 – May 22.
GEAR UP SWV / New River CTC
Through a strong partnership between New River Community and Technical College and GEAR UP SWV, students had the opportunity to participate in hands-on summer camps that introduced them to high-demand careers. By combining real tools, college-level instruction, and immersive activities, the camps helped students explore their interests, build practical skills, and imagine new possibilities for their future. This collaboration brings career pathways to life in a way that’s both meaningful and memorable.
Vital Path – Healthcare
June 2–3, 2026, Optional CPR Certification: June 4
Location: Beaver Campus
Groundbreakers – Introduction to Heavy Machinery
June 8–9, 2026
Location: Ghent Campus
Sewing with Fire –Welding
June 8–9, 2026
Location: Ghent Campus
Adventure Camp
June 11–12, 2026
Location: Beaver Campus
Beautiful U! – Cosmetology
June 24–25, 2026
Location: Beaver Campus
Contact Tammy Mills at (304)929-5471 or [email protected].
Registration opens March 9.
GEAR UP SWV / WVU Tech STEM Camp
June 29 – July 1 (Overnight)
At WVU Tech in Beckley, students dive into a three-day, four-night STEM experience on a college campus. GEAR UP SWV cohort students live in dorms, enjoy meals on campus, and engage in hands-on environmental science activities designed to inspire curiosity and build skills for future success. This camp helps students explore college life and discover exciting opportunities in STEM!
Contact Dr. Nathan Galinsky, Ph.D., at (304)929-1651 or [email protected].
Registration opens March 9 – May 22.
Summer Camp Grants
To help make summer opportunities accessible for all GEAR UP SWV students, Camp Grants are available to help cover the cost of approved camps. In addition to GEAR UP-hosted camps, students may apply for a grant to attend a camp of their choice. Camps should focus on topics or activities that could lead to a college degree. A short list of camps that have qualified in the past is provided for inspiration, but students are not limited to those options. Please apply today!
Summer Camp Grant Application 2026 opens March 9 – May 22.