As an eager 6-year-old camper, Aydin Wilhelm attended his first Camp Invention® the summer after graduating from kindergarten. Today, his experience has come full circle as he has taken on nearly every role possible at Camp Invention. Growing from a curious camper to an inspiring Instructor, he’s seen the camp experience from every angle and made every moment count.
A Camp Invention Journey
Wilhelm’s longevity at Camp Invention is a testament to the pathways available to students as they grow into aspiring leaders. From career exploration to uncovering the versatility of STEM, the life skills he developed through hands-on learning and exploration created a promising foundation.
From early days as a camper to growing leadership skills as a Leader-In-Training (LIT), Wilhelm kept the momentum going by returning to camp as a Leadership Intern (LI) and finally as an energetic Camp Invention instructor. Reflecting on his journey in a conversation with the National Inventors Hall of Fame®, Wilhelm explained, “It’s bittersweet because I do miss being a camper a lot, and I miss that magic. But at the same time, it's been amazing to evolve outside of that role and learn these other valuable skills in the leadership roles that brought their own magic.”