SUMMER TRANSPORTATION INSTITUTE

BACKGROUND & PURPOSE

A s the population of the United States increases the need construct improved highways, interstate systems, transit systems, pipelines, airplanes, traffic signals etc. becomes more imperative. Transporting goods and humans by land, water or air becomes a more challenging component of everyday life. Goods are not only considered items which are consumable but also include items that are non-consumable like natural resources (water and natural gas). As the world becomes more advanced, the need to increase the number of students and professionals in transportation is of high importance.

In an effort to prepare students to become leaders and professionals in the transportation industry, South Carolina State University , the South Carolina Department of Transportation and Development and the South Carolina Division of the Federal Highway Administration in 1993 partnered to begin a transportation pilot program for high school students. The success of the pilot program has contributed to the establishment of over 54 Summer Transportation Institutes at various colleges and universities nationwide. Since 1996, Southern University and A & M College (Southern), one of the oldest African American land grant institutions in America and one of the nations top Historically Black Colleges and Universities graduating African Americans from programs in engineering, technology, computer science and mathematics, has hosted the National Summer Transportation Institute (NSTI) for rising ninth, tenth and eleventh grade high school students with the purpose of introducing them to the multifaceted transportation industry and motivating them to pursue transportation careers. The program is funded by Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) through the National Summer Transportation Institute (NSTI) Resource Center managed by South Carolina State University Transportation Resource Center.

Each year, at least 15 local area high school achievers are invited to participate in the National Summer Transportation Institute at Southern University and A & M College . The institute consists of academic, enhancement, sports and recreational programs. Over the course of the institute, participants are introduced to various disciplines and areas within the transportation through interaction with industry professionals volunteering their time as guest speakers. Participants are enlightened with career highlights, opportunities, words of encouragement and wisdom. Fieldtrips are incorporated into the institute to introduce participants to various areas of transportation included but not limited to the following: Modes of transportation (land, air, water), Highway design, Transportation planning, Traffic signal timing, Transportation logistics, Public transit, Traffic flow, Aircraft performance, Flight instruments, Air navigation, Aircraft, Space, Inter-coastal waterways, Ferries, Towing and tugboat services, Marinas and Safety. Participants are also introduced to the several fundamentals mechanics of physical science and physics. The enhancement program enforces life skills such as time and money management, ACT preparation, self and career development and communication skills. The sports and recreation program fosters team work and the importance of incorporating exercise into daily life activities.

Planning of the NSTI is done by members of the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering and an Intermodal Advisory Committee comprised of representatives from FHWA, DOTD and various private companies with a focus in transportation.

CONTACT PERSON:

Dr. Patrick Carriere
(225) 771-5290 Ext. 183
carriere@engr.subr.edu