2025 Carbon STEM Summer Camp at Jackson State University

The 2025 Carbon STEM Summer Camp held this summer at Jackson State University (JSU) was a week-long educational experience for students entering grades 9-12. Designed to inspire the pursuit of careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), the camp provides hands-on STEM activities focused on managing carbon dioxide (CO₂).

Made possible through collaboration with Rice University’s Tapia Center, ExxonMobil Pipeline Company and JSU’s Upward Bound Program, students learned about the science and engineering behind carbon capture and storage (CCS). They explored how CO₂ is captured and transported for permanent storage by building model reservoirs out of household materials like Play-Doh, beans and vegetable oil to mimic the porous and impermeable rock layers where carbon is safely stored underground.

Students also gained valuable experience in environmental science, public speaking and teamwork, and interacted with industry professionals. ExxonMobil Pipeline Company employees volunteered their time to connect with campers, share career stories and offer mentorship.