The Mississippi Summer Transportation Institute (MSTI) Program was held at Jackson State University from July 8, 2018 through July 27, 2018. Twenty-six students participated in the program. MSTI focuses on introducing a diverse group of motivated pre-college students to the transportation industry and encourages them to pursue transportation related studies and careers. During the three-week residential program, students attended various academic and enhancement activities to improve skills in mathematics, science, engineering, and leadership. Activities included lectures and presentations, laboratory experiments, field trips and tours, and scientific projects. Lectures were given by engineering professors and covered topics such as civil and transportation engineering, environmental engineering, geothermal engineering, hydrology, and theoretical knowledge of land surveying. Experts from the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) spoke to students about various aspects of transportation and taught students how to create professional presentations. Laboratory experiments included working with concrete/asphalt and hydraulics. Field trips and tours included a visit to the Mississippi Civil Air Patrol, the Mississippi DOT, Paragon in Jackson, Old Depot Museum, Lower Mississippi River Museum, the Automobile Museum, a Weight Station, the Nissan Factory, and NASA’s Stennis Space Center in Mississippi.

See images from the various activities indicated above: