For more than seventy-five years, the College of Engineering at Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) has been at the forefront of producing outstanding underrepresented minority engineers and computer scientists for the nation’s technical workforce. In 2020, despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and operating with limited resources, the Roy G. Perry College of Engineering at PVAMU emerged as one of the top producers of African American male engineers in the nation, according to Diverse Magazine. This accomplishment underscores the critical role that Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) play in shaping the future engineering workforce.

Bridging the Gap: The Summer Bridge Program

A significant percentage of students in the Roy G. Perry College of Engineering are low-income and first-generation college students. These students often face substantial challenges in advancing through the demanding engineering and computer science curriculums. To address these challenges and better prepare students for success, the college established the Summer Bridge Program.

What is the Summer Bridge Program?

The Summer Bridge Program is a five-week intensive course designed for incoming freshmen engineering students who have already been admitted to the college and show potential for success. The program begins in the last week of June and runs through the end of July. The curriculum includes:

  • Algebra Trigonometry: A five-week course for credit that helps students develop the necessary mathematical foundation.
  • Introduction to Engineering: A course that provides an overview of the engineering field and helps students earn credits toward their degree.
  • Engineering Project Lab: Hands-on experience in an engineering field of interest, fostering practical skills and engagement.

By taking Algebra Trigonometry during the summer, students are positioned to enroll in Calculus I in their first semester, keeping them on track to graduate in four years.

Enhancing Academic and Personal Skills

The Summer Bridge Program not only focuses on academic preparedness but also on the holistic development of students. Participants gain essential skills such as time management and effective study habits, which are critical for the transition from high school to college. Moreover, the program fosters a supportive community where students build connections with their peers and upperclassmen counselors, who also serve as mentors during the fall semester.

Proven Success and Future Potential

Data from previous summer bridge programs at PVAMU demonstrate the program’s effectiveness. Participants in the Summer Bridge Program exhibit significantly higher retention rates in their first, second, and third years compared to non-participants. Moreover, there is a notable correlation between participation in the program and higher graduation rates. This success highlights the program’s role in not only supporting individual student achievement but also in contributing to a more diverse and skilled engineering workforce.

Looking Forward: The Need for Continued Support

To grow the future technology-driven workforce, it is crucial to continue and expand programs that support financially disadvantaged students. With additional funding from corporate partners, PVAMU’s College of Engineering aims to enhance the support provided to students, further improving graduation rates and ensuring that more students are equipped to succeed in their engineering careers.

The Roy G. Perry College of Engineering at Prairie View A&M University is making a significant impact on the technical workforce by supporting underrepresented minority students through innovative programs like the Summer Bridge Program. As we look to the future, continued investment and support will be key to maintaining and expanding these efforts, ensuring that more students can overcome challenges and achieve success in the engineering field.

For more information on how you can support the Summer Bridge Program and other initiatives at the Roy G. Perry College of Engineering, please visit PVAMU’s official website.