Engineering the future: Inaugural Honda America Engineering Academy launches at Central State University

This summer, Central State University became a launchpad for the next generation of innovators as it hosted the inaugural America Honda Engineering Academy, a four-week residential program designed to inspire high school students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

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Held from June 29 to July 24, the academy welcomed 15 rising juniors and seniors — primarily from Dayton, Columbus, and Cleveland — who demonstrated academic promise, a minimum 2.8 GPA, and a curiosity for STEM fields. Living on campus Sunday through Thursday each week, the students engaged in an immersive experience combining engineering concepts, team-based problem solving, and professional mentorship.

“This was more than a summer camp — it was a catalyst,” said LaKeysha Smith, M.Ed., Program Coordinator and Director of Academic Advising and Coaching in the Office of First- and Second-Year Student Success (FSYSS). “We created a space where students could visualize themselves as engineers, problem solvers, and innovators. Watching them light up with confidence and ideas over the course of four weeks was incredible.”

The academy was structured around a culminating case study project titled “Expanding the Future of Mobility,” which challenged students to conceptualize solutions that could shape the future of transportation. Each week, Honda engineers joined participants on campus to introduce new technical concepts, guide design thinking, and help teams build toward their final presentations.

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“We intentionally made it hands-on and interactive,” Smith added. “The students didn’t just sit in classrooms — they brainstormed, built prototypes, asked questions, and worked as a team. They were treated like young professionals, and they rose to that expectation.”

Brittany Kendrics, Honda HBCU Initiative Leader, added: 

“As part of Honda’s Drive The Legacy HBCU initiative, we are proud to partner with Historically Black Colleges and Universities to build meaningful pathways into STEM careers for the next generation of innovators. The CSU Honda Engineering Academy exemplifies this commitment — offering students early exposure to engineering and a firsthand look at the dynamic, supportive learning environment at Central State University. Together with Central State, we’re investing in the future of Ohio by empowering and equipping the state’s next generation of leaders, thinkers, and trailblazers.”

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One of the most anticipated highlights of the program was a full day visit to the Honda Heritage Center and the Technical Development Center in Marysville, Ohio, on July 16. Students toured the state-of-the-art facility, met Honda associates across disciplines, and witnessed firsthand how advanced engineering and automation come together in high-performance manufacturing.

“That visit was a game changer,” Smith said. “Seeing a global company in action gave our students a sense of scale, possibility, and belonging in that world. They came back energized and even more determined to pursue STEM careers.”

The program concluded with a closing ceremony on July 24 in the Norman E. Ward Center Ballroom at Central State. In front of family members, Honda representatives, and University staff, the student teams presented their final projects — complete with creative solutions and thoughtful insights — followed by special recognitions and personal reflections on the journey.

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Smith emphasized the broader impact of the academy on student confidence and career awareness: “This experience gave students exposure to engineering and access to mentorship and an environment where they were encouraged to see themselves in these roles. We witnessed a transformation in some of their mindsets — from wondering if they belonged in STEM to knowing they do.”

The American Honda Engineering Academy was hosted by Central State’s FSYSS, which supports student development through innovative programming and strong partnerships. As the University continues expanding its pipeline programs and workforce development efforts, the success of the first American Honda Engineering Academy stands as a powerful example of the impact that real-world learning and industry collaboration can have on young minds.