Earlier this month, a whopping 80 students were given special access to the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) to participate in a two-week Math and Science Education Advancement (GEMS) summer camp.

This year students from around Yuma County to as far away as Somerton traveled to the YPG for camp. Over the years, students from East County and the Imperial Valley have attended.

“We are reaching out to more children, exposing them to the YPG and STEM concepts, connecting them with what we are doing here, educating local youth about testing and assessment, and providing opportunities for free STEM camps. ,” GEMS explained. Coordinator Paula Rickleff.

Most of these kids have nothing to do with the YPG, but some, like Addison Head, have parents working for the YPG.

“It’s a lot of fun. You learn a lot,” she said.

Head was impressed with the static display and enjoyed climbing inside.

Kindall Wallace’s father also worked for the YPG, and she said she now understands a little more about his father’s work. “They are all very interesting.”

Hearing compliments like this makes hosting a two-week camp worthwhile, says Ricklev.

As student numbers continue to grow, so does the number of support staff needed.

Support personnel come from various departments at the Yuma Test Center and are experts in creating and driving labs.

“They make GEMS work,” said Ricklev. He added, “They have successful programs in the lab.
and provide a supply list. It’s all thanks to their expertise and knowledge. ”