Pathfinder Academy | ECTC

Pathfinder Academy

ECTC's Pathfinder Academy: Summer 2026, sponsored by Abound Credit Union and put on by AMAP (Advanced Manufacturing Accelerator Project)

ECTC’s 2026 Pathfinder Academy offers fun, hands‑on learning opportunities for students entering 6th through 12th grade. This summer program features a variety of interactive classes designed to spark curiosity and build real‑world skills. Course offerings include Art, CADD/3D Printing, VEX Robotics, and more.

Pathfinder Academy will be held June 8-12. Students may register for multiple classes, including all‑day options, during the same registration session. Please note that each student must be registered separately, and families should carefully review grade requirements and class times before completing registration.

Enrollment is limited and available on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Early registration is encouraged to ensure your student’s place in the program.

Register Now!

Class offerings

All classes will be held June 8-12. The cost ranges from $175 per class to $300 for all‑day sessions, with additional fees possibly applying.

Lunch will be provided by the Hardin County School Lunch Program. Students who prefer not to eat the provided lunch are welcome to bring their own.

Time: All Day (8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.)

Entering: 9th–12th grade

Check-In: 8:15 a.m.

Description: Learn how to create compelling characters using simple shapes and dynamic action lines.

Art from Former Student, Brianne Anderson

cartoon drawing by Brianne Anderson of a lineup of characters: woman with lobster legs, fish person, person with an octopus as a hat, and a sushi chefcartoon drawings by Brianne Anderson of a fish person

cartoon drawing by Brianne Anderson of a sushi chefcartoon drawing by Brianne Anderson of a person with an octopus on their head

Character designs copyright 2026, by Brianne Anderson. Work created in 2-D Design Studio Course.

Time: Morning Session (8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)

Entering: 6th–8th grade

Check-In: 8:15 a.m.

Description: Students will learn how to create 3D models, print them out, and create projects that can be burned on the laser.

Time: Afternoon Session (12:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)

Entering: 9th–12th grade

Check-In: 12:15 p.m.

Description: Students will learn how to create 3D models, print them out, and create projects that can be burned on the laser.

Time: Morning Session (8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)

Entering: 6th–12th grade

Check-In: 8:15 a.m.

Description: Get hands-on with real industrial robots. Engage in challenges and team projects while learning how FANUC robots move, think, and work.

Time: Afternoon Session (12:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)

Entering: 6th–12th grade

Check-In: 12:15 p.m.

Description: Get hands-on with real industrial robots. Engage in challenges and team projects while learning how FANUC robots move, think, and work.

Time: Morning Session (8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)

Entering: 9th–12th grade

Check-In: 8:15 a.m.

Description: Students will choose from a pillowcase, a small tote bag, a small pillow, or a small lap quilt to sew.

Time: Afternoon Session (12:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)

Entering: 6th–8th grade

Check-In: 12:15 p.m.

Description: Students will choose from a pillowcase, a small tote bag, a small pillow, or a small lap quilt to sew.

Time: Morning Session (8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)

Entering: 9th–12th grade

Check-In: 8:15 a.m.

Description: Students will learn how to assemble simple electronic circuits while learning various soldering techniques.

Time: All Day (8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.)

Entering: 6th–12th grade

Check-In: 8:15 a.m.

Description: Learn how to design, build, program, and compete using VEX robots.

Time: All Day (8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.)

Entering: 8th–12th grade

Check-In: 8:15 a.m.

Description: Students will explore advanced mechanisms, integrate sensors into decision-making, and transition into C++ development using Visual Studio Code.

Time: All Day (8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.)

Entering: 6th–12th grade

Check-In: 8:15 a.m.

Description: Students will perform several different types of welds while learning how welding adapts to real-world fabrication needs.

Sponsor

ECTC's 2026 Pathfinder Academy is sponsored by Abound Credit Union!

Each day, Abound will conduct Financial Wellness classes at Pathfinder Academy, offering engaging activities like Kahoot!, auto buying presentations, and interactive games to teach financial literacy to 6th-12th graders!