It’s summertime and technology camps devoted to teaching students the ins and outs of computer and video game design and production are becoming increasingly popular across the nation. From California to New York, leading businesses, organizations and universities are dedicating their time and resources to attracting the next generation of entertainment software industry professionals through summer camps.

Over a decade ago, a family in Silicon Valley saw a need for technology education among kids and teens. Internal Drive was born and has since offered week-long Tech Camps for students 7-17 years old at more than 60 universities across the country. The camps focus on game design, programming, film and graphic arts. At each camp, six instructors teach up to forty students how to operate key programs developed by Adobe, Apple, Canon, HP and Microsoft.

Microsoft Corporation recognized a similar need for technology education, particularly among the female demographic and developed a program called DigiGirlz. The camp gives high school girls the opportunity to learn about careers in technology, connect with Microsoft employees and participate in hands-on computer and technology workshops. The project’s goal is to increase interest and enrollment in technology-related degree programs.

The trend of video game camps is growing across the country this summer and, based on this year’s success, will only get bigger next summer. The result of this trend will come 10 years from now, when this year’s campers will be designing the video games you purchase in stores.