Madison College Career Discovery Youth Camps

Madison Campus

1701 Wright Street, Madison WI 53704

Madison College's Career Discovery youth camps offer fun, interactive educational experiences for children in grades 5-12. Our camps are designed to enhance your child's knowledge and personal growth with exciting hands-on classes, labs and experiences customized for youth.

  • All camps start at 9 am and end at 3 pm
  • Enrollment based on grade level in Fall 2025
  • Breakfast snack, classroom snacks and lunch provided
  • Some camps have off-site field trips
  • Camp cost is listed for each camp - * These camps received grants from SparkForce, The FMA Foundation 
  • Limited amount of scholarships available - Apply now!

Madison Summer 2026 Camp Offerings

Check out our Branch Campus Summer Camps

Art and Creativity

A One-of-a-Kind Artistic Adventure!

Our camp is designed to spark creativity and artistic growth in young participants!

Mornings:
Dive into the exciting world of calligraphy! Through fun, interactive lessons and hands-on activities, kids will learn the foundational principles of lettering and penmanship in a way tailored just for them. Guided by expert instructors, they’ll master the basics, build confidence, and develop fine motor skills.

Afternoons:
This is where creativity takes flight! Participants will use their new calligraphy skills to experiment with vibrant watercolor techniques and design personalized cards. These playful sessions blend education with fun, encouraging kids to explore their artistic side in a supportive and inspiring environment.

At Madison College, we’re passionate about offering young learners hands-on experiences that go beyond the classroom. This camp is more than just an introduction to calligraphy—it’s an opportunity to ignite a lifelong love for art, celebrate creativity, and build skills that will last a lifetime.
Dates: 6/15/2026 - 6/19/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Joann Carpenter
Entering Grades: 6th-10th
Sketch and Paint the Beauty of Nature! Explore the wonders of nature by sketching everything from majestic trees to fluffy clouds! Then, watch your creations come to life as you complete them in vibrant watercolor. Click the link above to see complete overview of camp.

Dates: 6/22/2026 - 6/26/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Joann Carpenter
Entering Grades: 6th - 10th
This camp is open to students of all levels ceramics camp!
We will primarily work on the potter's wheel, focusing on increasing throwing speed and accuracy through repetition. Due to the nature of the material's drying time and firing time, most of the work made in this camp will only be bisque-fired. If time and weather permit, we will do a raku firing on the last day of camp.

Highlights of the Camp:
Hands-On Workshops: Learn essential techniques like hand-building, wheel-throwing, and sculpting ️.
Glazing & Firing: Experiment with colors, textures, and finishes as you glaze and fire your creations in a professional kiln.
Artistic Expression: Develop your personal style while working on guided projects and your own imaginative designs.
Creative Community: Collaborate with fellow art enthusiasts in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Who Can Join:
Open to students of all skill levels—from beginners to budding ceramicists. No prior experience is needed, just a passion for art and a willingness to learn!

Why Join:
This camp is not just about learning ceramics; it's about building confidence, honing skills, and creating art that truly reflects you. Whether you're looking to build your portfolio or simply have fun, this experience will leave you with lasting memories—and some amazing pottery!

Let your creativity take shape—join us for an unforgettable ceramics adventure!

Please note – 4 day Camp will run Monday through Wednesday 8/3-8/5 and the following Monday 8/10 for glazing.
Dates: 8/3/2026 - 8/10/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Rachelle Miller
Entering Grades: 9th - 12th
This camp is open to students of all levels ceramics camp!
We will primarily work on the potter's wheel, focusing on increasing throwing speed and accuracy through repetition. Due to the nature of the material's drying time and firing time, most of the work made in this camp will only be bisque-fired. If time and weather permit, we will do a raku firing on the last day of camp.

Highlights of the Camp:
Hands-On Workshops: Learn essential techniques like hand-building, wheel-throwing, and sculpting ️.
Glazing & Firing: Experiment with colors, textures, and finishes as you glaze and fire your creations in a professional kiln.
Artistic Expression: Develop your personal style while working on guided projects and your own imaginative designs.
Creative Community: Collaborate with fellow art enthusiasts in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Who Can Join:
Open to students of all skill levels—from beginners to budding ceramicists. No prior experience is needed, just a passion for art and a willingness to learn!

Why Join:
This camp is not just about learning ceramics; it's about building confidence, honing skills, and creating art that truly reflects you. Whether you're looking to build your portfolio or simply have fun, this experience will leave you with lasting memories—and some amazing pottery!

Let your creativity take shape—join us for an unforgettable ceramics adventure!

Please note – 3 day Camp will run Thursday and Friday 8/6 & 8/7 and the following Tuesday 8/11 for glazing.
Dates: 8/6/2026 - 8/11/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Rachelle Miller
Entering Grades: 6th - 8th
Discover the exciting world of fashion in this introductory camp designed for beginners! Students will learn the basics of turning creative ideas into simple, wearable designs. We’ll start with easy steps like sketching, choosing fabrics, and cutting beginner patterns. Then, students will practice essential sewing techniques to create their own garment or accessory. Along the way, they’ll build confidence, creativity, and teamwork skills. The camp ends with a fun mini fashion show where students can proudly display their finished piece!
Dates: 6/23/2026 - 6/26/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Lindsay Leno
Entering Grades: 6th - 10th
Take your fashion skills to the next level! This camp is designed for students who already know basic sewing and want to explore more advanced techniques. You’ll dive deeper into the design process by creating original sketches, selecting fabrics with purpose, and modifying patterns to fit your vision. Students will practice garment construction, learn fitting adjustments, and apply professional finishing techniques. By the end of camp, you’ll have a polished, custom piece ready to showcase in our mini fashion show!
Dates: 7/14/2026 - 7/17/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Lindsay Leno
Entering Grades: 6th - 10th
Ready to master the art of fashion design? This advanced camp is designed for students with strong sewing skills who want to create professional-quality garments from scratch. You’ll learn how to draft complex patterns, make precise fitting adjustments, and apply couture-level finishing techniques. Students will work with challenging fabrics, explore creative design details, and bring their vision to life through a fully custom garment. The camp wraps up with a professional-style fashion showcase where your work takes center stage!
Dates: 8/4/2026 - 8/7/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Lindsay Leno
Entering Grades: 6th - 10th
This dynamic studio dives into layering, blending, texture, and color intensity with acrylic paint. Students learn to mix clean, vibrant hues, simplify form, and apply paint with control and intention. Each project builds on the last, developing technical skill and expressive confidence. The week concludes with a studio show and group critique to recognize growth and experimentation. Who it attracts: Energetic students who love color, visible progress, and a fast-moving studio.

Dates: 7/6/2026 - 7/10/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Lee Schauer
Entering Grades: 9th - 12th
Join us for a fun and inspiring week of music-making at the Melody Makers Piano Camp! ,This camp offers a mix of group lessons, individual practice time, music games, and creative activities. Campers will build their piano skills, explore music theory in a playful way, and even try composing their own short pieces.
Dates: 7/7/2026 - 7/9/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Joann Carpenter
Entering Grades: 3rd - 6th
Students study proportion, anatomy, light, and color to capture the individuality and presence of the human face. Working from photos and mirrors, and possibly a model, they move from charcoal sketches to full-color paintings (mediums vary), exploring both realism and expressive interpretation. Instruction balances accuracy with creative decision-making, ending in a group show of finished portrait studies. Who it attracts: Focused teens who want to push realism, sharpen observation, and produce impressive, display-ready work.
Dates: 7/13/2026 - 7/17/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Lee Schauer
Entering Grades: 9th - 12th

Baking and Decorating

Elevate your baking skills in this hands-on camp designed for aspiring bakers ready to go beyond the basics. Learn how to craft a variety of baked goods entirely from scratch using staple pantry ingredients, while mastering techniques that professional bakers use every day. Discover how to transform foundational recipes into gourmet creations by experimenting with flavor profiles, textures, and creative mix-ins. Dive into the science behind baking for consistent, delicious results. Explore exciting career paths in the baking industry, including artisan baker, pastry chef, cake designer, and bakery entrepreneur. Perfect for those who are passionate about baking and eager to take their skills to the next level!

Dates: 8/4/2026 - 8/6/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Suzanne Daly
Entering Grades: 9th - 12th
Learn how to make delicious baked items from scratch using ingredients you may already have in your cupboards! You will learn how to take base recipes and change them into many different varieties by what fun mix-ins you add to it! Explore careers in the baking industry, such as baker, cake decorator and more.

* Same Content in both sessions, Please sign up for only one offering.
Dates: 6/23/2026 - 6/25/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Suzanne Daly
Entering Grades: 6th - 8th
Learn how to make delicious baked items from scratch using ingredients you may already have in your cupboards! You will learn how to take base recipes and change them into many different varieties by what fun mix-ins you add to it! Explore careers in the baking industry, such as baker, cake decorator and more.

* Same Content in both sessions, Please sign up for only one offering.
Dates: 7/14/2026 - 7/16/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Suzanne Daly
Entering Grades: 6th - 8th
Sharpen your culinary skills and take your cooking to the next level! In this hands-on camp designed for high school students, you’ll explore global flavors, learn professional techniques, and work in teams to prepare complete meals from start to finish. From mastering knife precision and seasoning balance to plating and presentation, you’ll cook like a chef and gain real kitchen confidence.
Dates: 6/17/2026 - 6/19/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Bradley Kahn
Entering Grades: 9th - 12th
Fire up your cooking skills in this hands-on camp designed for middle school students who love to cook! You’ll learn knife skills, kitchen safety, and essential stovetop techniques while creating tasty dishes from around the world. Each day highlights new skills — from making perfect pasta and flavorful stir-fries to creating sauces, soups, and salads. You’ll leave camp ready to cook confidently for yourself and your family.


Dates: 7/28/2026 - 7/30/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Bradley Kahn
Entering Grades: 6th - 8th
Indulge Your Passion for Baking Fancy Desserts

Craft high-end desserts like macarons with marshmallow buttercream and lemon meringue filling, cheesecake with homemade jam, creme brûlée, and meringue nests. ! Unleash your creativity in the state-of-the-art Baking Lab at the Truax campus, where you'll create mouthwatering treats to impress and delight.

Dive into the world of professional baking and explore exciting career paths in the culinary arts!

Join us for a hands-on, immersive experience designed to inspire the youth in our community. Discover the incredible programs Madison College offers while learning, creating, and tasting your way to new skills and sweet success!

Dates: 6/15/2026 - 6/18/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Avery DeJesus
Entering Grades: 9th - 12th
Indulge Your Passion for Baking Fancy Desserts

Craft high-end desserts like macarons with marshmallow buttercream and lemon meringue filling, cheesecake with homemade jam, creme brûlée, and meringue nests. ! Unleash your creativity in the state-of-the-art Baking Lab at the Truax campus, where you'll create mouthwatering treats to impress and delight.

Dive into the world of professional baking and explore exciting career paths in the culinary arts!

Join us for a hands-on, immersive experience designed to inspire the youth in our community. Discover the incredible programs Madison College offers while learning, creating, and tasting your way to new skills and sweet success!
Dates: 6/22/2026 - 6/25/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Avery DeJesus
Entering Grades: 5th - 8th
Unleash Your Inner Baker and Decorator! Whip up delicious treats from scratch and then turning them into beautiful edible creations! Discover how to transform basic recipes into endless flavor combinations. You will learn how to use a pastry bag and some basic piping decoration techniques and use your creativity to elevate your baked goods. Learn the art of working with fondant and royal icing to craft stunning decorations that bring your vision to life. Join us for an engaging, hands-on experience at Madison College and discover the amazing programs we offer to inspire and empower the youth in our community!
Dates: 7/27/2026 - 7/29/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Cheryl Seamars
Number of Seats Available: 10
Questions: (608) 258-2301
Entering Grades: 5th - 9th
Get ready for a three days full of creativity and sugar! Kids will learn to decorate cupcakes, cookies, and cakes — from simple designs to amazing edible masterpieces. Using buttercream, fondant, and other fun decorating tools, campers will explore both beginner and advanced techniques while expressing their imagination in the sweetest way possible!
Dates: 8/4/2026 - 8/6/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Cheryl Seamars
Entering Grades: 5th-10th

Personal Development, Healthcare and Education

Embark on an exciting journey into the world of healthcare at the 3-day Health Explorers Camp! This immersive summer camp is perfect for curious and aspiring students eager to learn about programs within the Madison College School of Health Science.

What to Expect:
Hands-on Experiences
In-depth Insights into Fields like nursing, medical imaging, respiratory therapy, and more!
State-of-the-Art Facilities

Highlights Include:
Interactive workshops
Realistic healthcare simulations
Collaborative activities

Learn about Dental Assist, Respiratory Therapy, Radiology, Medical Coding, Medical Assistant, and Foundations of Health.

Why Join?
Gain valuable skills
Discover diverse career opportunities
Dive into the fascinating world of health sciences

Whether you're dreaming of a future in healthcare or just want to learn how the human body works ️, the Health Explorers Camp is your first step toward making an impact in medicine and beyond!
Dates: 7/28/2026 - 7/30/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Amy Setchel
Entering Grades: 8th - 12th

STEM and Trades

Diesel Days 3-day camp will provide students the opportunity to step into the boots of a Diesel Technician/Service Technician! Students will be actively involved in hands-on mechanical projects, solving real-world problems, and learning the ins and outs of equipment.

Camp participants will gain an understanding of:
* Vehicle Inspection
* Engine Diagnostics
* Aftertreatment Systems
* Vehicle Alignment

* A field trip to an area employer will also be included in the camp!

Note: Campers must wear either work boots or tennis shoes that are laced/tied, and full-length pants during their entire camp experience. Two t-shirts will be provided to participants on the first day of camp and can be worn on day 2 and 3.

Safety First: Madison College understands that learning about heavy equipment and trucks can involve safety risks, such as loud noises and chemical and mechanical concerns. We will provide campers with a safe environment to learn in, and trained experts will always supervise every camper. Safety glasses will be provided and must be always worn while in the shop setting.

Dates: 8/4/2026 - 8/6/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Kai Collins
Entering Grades: 9th - 12th
Rev Up for an Unforgettable Adventure! Sponsored by the Wisconsin Automobile & Truck Dealer's Association and local business champions, our 5-day camp is the ultimate experience for kids who love cars! If your child dreams about vehicles and thrives on hands-on challenges, this is the camp for them!

Dates: 6/15/2026 - 6/19/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Marty Prew, Craig Kleinsteiber
Entering Grades: 7th-9th
Unleash your child’s creativity and passion for building! Our exciting and interactive welding camps offer an unforgettable journey into the world of welding.

What’s in store?
Design & Build: Campers will bring their ideas to life, crafting unique projects they can proudly showcase.
Exciting Demos: See cutting-edge welding techniques demonstrated by instructors.

Program Goals:
1️. Introduce students to cool welding techniques and applications.
2️. Build a solid foundation in welding safety.
3️. Spark lifelong interest in welding and open doors to future career opportunities.

Our Mission:
At Madison College, we are dedicated to giving the youth in our community a hands-on learning experience. Through engaging activities, students will explore the exciting programs we offer and gain valuable insight into the world of welding.

Perfect for middle and high school students eager to create, explore, and build with their hands. Spaces are limited—secure your spot today!

Are you ready to fuel your child’s passion for making and creating? Let’s weld the future together!
Dates: 7/13/2026 - 7/16/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Nick Castillo
Entering Grades: 9th-12th
Discover the Thrill of Engineering and Create Your Own Device!

Explore the Exciting Fusion of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering!

Dive into the world where engineering disciplines unite to bring amazing products to life! In this hands-on camp, you'll design, program, and build your very own device from scratch.

Learn essential skills, bring your vision to life with 3D printing.

Whether you're a total beginner or a budding innovator, this camp sparks creativity and brings imagination to reality. No experience needed – just your curiosity and ideas!

Join us on a mission to inspire and empower young minds through hands-on learning experiences that showcase the cutting-edge programs offered at Madison College.

Your journey into engineering starts here – don’t miss out!
Dates: 7/7/2026 - 7/9/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Andy Kurth
Entering Grades: 10th-12th
Discover the Thrill of Engineering and Create Your Own Device!

Explore the Exciting Fusion of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering!

Dive into the world where engineering disciplines unite to bring amazing products to life! In this hands-on camp, you'll design, program, and build your very own device from scratch.

Learn essential skills, bring your vision to life with 3D printing.

Whether you're a total beginner or a budding innovator, this camp sparks creativity and brings imagination to reality. No experience needed – just your curiosity and ideas!

Join us on a mission to inspire and empower young minds through hands-on learning experiences that showcase the cutting-edge programs offered at Madison College.

Your journey into engineering starts here – don’t miss out!
Dates: 7/14/2026 - 7/16/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Andy Kurth
Entering Grades: 7th-9th
Unleash your child’s creativity and passion for building! Our exciting and interactive welding camps offer an unforgettable journey into the world of welding.

What’s in store?
Design & Build: Campers will bring their ideas to life, crafting unique projects they can proudly showcase.
Exciting Demos: See cutting-edge welding techniques demonstrated by instructors.

Program Goals:
1️. Introduce students to cool welding techniques and applications.
2️. Build a solid foundation in welding safety.
3️. Spark lifelong interest in welding and open doors to future career opportunities.

Our Mission:
At Madison College, we are dedicated to giving the youth in our community a hands-on learning experience. Through engaging activities, students will explore the exciting programs we offer and gain valuable insight into the world of welding.

Perfect for middle and high school students eager to create, explore, and build with their hands. Spaces are limited—secure your spot today!

Are you ready to fuel your child’s passion for making and creating? Let’s weld the future together!

Dates: 7/27/2026 - 7/31/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Ben Newcomb
Entering Grades: 6th-8th
Ignite Your Child's Creativity and Spark a Passion for Advanced Welding! Dive into the exciting world of advanced welding with our FUN and HANDS-ON 4 - day summer camp! Perfect for middle and high school students, our program offers campers the unique opportunity to master advanced welding techniques while bringing their creative visions to life. Click the link above to see complete overview of camp.

Dates: 8/3/2026 - 8/6/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Shaun Walker
Entering Grades: 7th - 12th
Unleash your child’s creativity and passion for building! Our exciting and interactive welding camps offer an unforgettable journey into the world of welding.

What’s in store?
Design & Build: Campers will bring their ideas to life, crafting unique projects they can proudly showcase.
Exciting Demos: See cutting-edge welding techniques demonstrated by instructors.

Program Goals:
1️. Introduce students to cool welding techniques and applications.
2️. Build a solid foundation in welding safety.
3️. Spark lifelong interest in welding and open doors to future career opportunities.

Our Mission:
At Madison College, we are dedicated to giving the youth in our community a hands-on learning experience. Through engaging activities, students will explore the exciting programs we offer and gain valuable insight into the world of welding.

Perfect for middle and high school students eager to create, explore, and build with their hands. Spaces are limited—secure your spot today!

Are you ready to fuel your child’s passion for making and creating? Let’s weld the future together!
Dates: 8/3/2026 - 8/7/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Amanda Neumaier
Entering Grades: 6th - 12th
Join Our Four-Day HVAC Adventure! Discover the fascinating world of residential air conditioning in this hands-on camp! Dive into the basics of HVAC systems and Electrical circuits. Sharpen your troubleshooting skills while exploring the exciting possibilities in this field.

Dates: 7/6/2026 - 7/9/2026
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Instructor: Brian Moore
Entering Grades: 8th-12th

Madison Camp Schedule

8:45-9:00 am: Drop off with breakfast snacks available
9:00-11:15 am: Morning session
11:30-12:15 pm: Lunch break, provided by Madison College Catering
12:30-3:00 pm: Afternoon Session
3:00-3:15 pm: Pick up 
Contact Professional Development and Continuing Education

Commercial Avenue Campus

Office Address
2125 Commercial Avenue
Madison, WI 53704

Mailing Address
1701 Wright Street
Madison, WI 53707

608.258.2301, Option 2
855.473.2301, Option 2
ace@madisoncollege.edu

Office Hours

  • Monday - Friday: 8 am - 4 pm