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For Over a Decade, STIHL Inc. Has Inspired Future Innovators at Its Annual Manufacturing Technology Summer Camp

Release Date: 8/1/2025

Kids at the STIHL Manufacturing Technology Summer Camp

Virginia Beach, VA – This summer, STIHL Inc. once again welcomed a group of aspiring innovators to its Virginia Beach headquarters for the 11th annual Manufacturing Technology Summer Camp. Held from July 29–August 1, the immersive four-day program gave 32 high school students from across the region a hands-on introduction to real-world STEM and skilled trade careers. Students worked in teams designing and building either analog or digital clocks using STIHL product components, applying engineering, planning, and teamwork in a competitive setting.

The program culminated in a friendly team competition judged by local leaders, with the top team earning the title of 2025 champions. Tangerine Timepieces—Brooks Shows, Scott Chippendale, Tyson Nguyen, Chloe Karika, Lucas Bundy, Abigail Messing, and Bella Grace Chavez—impressed the panel with a variety of both analog and digital clocks, showcasing outstanding innovation, collaboration, and execution. Winning campers each received a $1,000 scholarship to support their continued growth in STEM education and career pathways.

“Being part of the STIHL summer camp for several years has been a game-changer for me. Every year, I grow more confident in my leadership and teamwork skills, and I gain a deeper understanding of how a business really works, from planning to execution," remarked Bella Grace Chavez, an 11th grader celebrating her third year as part of a winning team. "This hands-on competition has helped me discover what I’m capable of and encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone."

Throughout the week, students navigated every phase of the manufacturing process, from concept development to budgeting and quality control, mirroring the real-world demands of the industry. On the final day, teams presented their finished clocks to a panel of distinguished local judges:

  •  Anne Ferrell Tata, Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates – District 99
  • Bobby Dyer, Mayor of Virginia Beach
  • Andy Gladstein, Campus President, ECPI University
  • Jeff Largen, Regional Sales Manager, Shingle & Gibb Automation, LLC

“This program opens students’ eyes to the exciting possibilities within modern manufacturing,” said Courtney Addison, Senior Manager of Talent Development at STIHL Inc. “Every year, we see students leave the camp not only with new skills but with a clearer vision for their future. For many, that future includes a career in STEM or a pathway in skilled trades – both of which offer fulfilling opportunities in the manufacturing sector.”

Offered at no cost to participants, the Manufacturing Technology Summer Camp is part of STIHL’s broader investment in the future of the workforce. Past participants have gone on to study engineering at top universities or entered STIHL’s apprenticeship programs, setting them on a course toward rewarding careers in STEM and manufacturing. In addition to hands-on experience and professional development, all campers are eligible to receive a $1,000 scholarship if they choose to attend ECPI University, further supporting their continued growth in technical education and career pathways.

For more information on STIHL Inc., and its talent development efforts, visit www.STIHLusa.com.