Creators of Tomorrow

A series of Virtual Reality (VR) Camps, hosted at OU’s Engineering Center during the summer months, is nothing short of remarkable. Industry-academic partnerships play a crucial role in delivering exceptional learning experiences, and this camp is no exception.

In 2024, the camp — generously sponsored by Magna International, a global leader in automotive technology, and the School of Engineering and Computer Science Outreach program — was sparking excitement by offering campers a thrilling dive into the world of virtual reality: from a hands-on experience that interacts with advanced technologies to game design and architectural visualization.

“This camp offers an incredible opportunity for students to engage with the future of technology. Virtual and augmented reality are transforming everything from gaming, to education, to healthcare. By giving students early exposure to these tools, we’re empowering them to be the next generation of innovators,” says Chris Kobus, Ph.D., professor of mechanical engineering and SECS Outreach director.

The Virtual Reality camp students showcased their projects to fellow campers and parents at OU's Augmented Reality Center.

During the first part of the camp, the Virtual Reality World Builders Camp, students jumped into Unreal Engine 5, a professional-grade platform used by industries worldwide. They didn't just learn — they created! From designing immersive virtual worlds from scratch with blueprint programming to bringing objects to life with computer-aided design software, the young creators were all about pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

For those who were ready for more, the Advanced Virtual Reality Camp brought in an even deeper dive into the possibilities of VR — developing students’ skills further in Unreal Engine 5 and refining their abilities in both world-building and blueprint programming. Here, campers had an opportunity to experience their creations, while using Meta Quest headsets, which brought their designs to life in fully immersive VR environments. 

The week culminated with a visit to OU’s Augmented Reality Center (ARC), which features the most advanced VR and AR systems available today. Khalid Mirza, Ph.D., special instructor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, as well as the ARC director, shared his excitement. “This was the point when the Virtual Reality camp students showcased their projects to fellow campers and proud parents. Witnessing the enthusiasm and creativity in these students' immersive creations was truly inspiring. The joy on their faces as they shared their work — and the pride in their parents’ eyes — perfectly captured the spirit of what we strive for at ARC and SECS,” he says.

This dynamic camp, like many other summer programs offered by SECS Outreach, is more than just an introduction to technology — it’s an experience that inspires young minds to dream big and think like future problem solvers and pioneers of the future. Through hands-on activities, real-world applications, and cutting-edge tools, SECS is fostering the kind of innovation that is required of creators of tomorrow.