Introduction
The proposed pilot project would provide an experience-based, transportation focused, residential education experience to at least 20 middle and early high school aged female students. Expertise in transportation would be provided by faculty of Oregon Institute of Technology’s (OIT) Department of Civil Engineering and OIT engineering students, including those from the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Student Chapter.

The proposed project team would include:
Gayle Yamasaki – Director of Sponsored & Pre-College Programs, OIT
Katie Edwards – Program Coordinator, Sponsored & Pre-College Programs, OIT 
Pamela Ruddock – Office  Specialist, Sponsored & Pre-College Programs, OIT
Roger Lindgren – Associate Professor of Civil Engineering (transportation), OIT
Lawrence Powers – Professor of Natural Science, OIT & Science Coordinator Crater Lake Science and Learning Center 
William Brock – Division Chief, Crater Lake National Park 


Methodology
The proposed transportation-themed summer 2009 residential session would involve a four day three night intensive education experience. Students would start the program at the OIT campus in Klamath Falls and then travel to the Crater Lake National Park Science and Learning Center for a hands-on problem solving field trip. The Center is an outstanding outdoor laboratory and classroom located in Oregon’s only national park; it draws scientists, teachers and students to investigate, instruct and learn from and about our natural world and its built environment. The park recently overhauled the vehicle and pedestrian transportation systems around many of the most popular attractions. An evaluation of the interaction of many modes of transportation should provide a stimulating learning environment. 

Results
In summary, this project would expose at least 20 young women from rural communities to a dynamic, transportation-focused experience. These young women would be chosen for the program in consultation with their school teachers and their interest in a career in science and technology would be validated by “career pathways” portfolios. In general, these young women would be from homes and communities where college attendance is rare. 

The project would also build on the continuing partnership between the OIT and the Crater Lake National Park Science and Learning Center. This project would further the OTREC goal of generating interest in the profession of transportation among those least represented in the field. The program would be directed and supported by the Office of Sponsored and Pre-College programs at OIT. Match funding sources would include the university and private donations.