Camp Safety and Q & A

SAFETY and Q & A

Galena Tech Institute (GTI) Safety Guidelines & Frequently Asked Questions

Safety Guidelines

Arrival: Please plan to arrive 5-10 minutes early if possible. For safety reasons, we cannot allow students into class more than 15 minutes after it has begun.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Please bring your own PPE, which must include safety glasses with side shields or wrap-around style, dust masks, and gloves for metal work. We will have backup PPE available, but it may not fit as well as your personal equipment.
Dust Protection: Although masks are not required, we strongly encourage students to wear them to help protect against inhaling sawdust. Wearing a mask with a wire nose piece will also help reduce fogging on your safety glasses.
Hearing Protection: Hearing protection is strongly encouraged when using saws and other tools. We provide several options, but you are welcome to bring your own.
Attire: Wear closed-toe shoes—no sandals or exceptions! Long hair must be tied back, and you must not wear any dangling jewelry or baggy clothing.
Liability Waivers: Parents or guardians are required to sign a Robotics Camp Waiver prior to the start of class. Please complete the waiver and email it within 3 days of registration to camp.gti@gmail.com

FAQs

Who is organizing this camp? This summer robotics camp is presented by Galena Tech Institute, a local 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to technical education and FeenX, a local FRC Robotics team. While our programs are hosted at the Bridgewire Makerspace, all registration and curriculum are managed by Galena Tech Institute staff.

Where is the camp located? Classes are held in the classroom and shops at the Bridgewire Makerspace:

1055 Industrial Way Ste. 20, Sparks, NV 89431 (Note: Do not use Google Maps street view; it is currently incorrect). Our entrance is at the back of the building. Look for these landmarks:

A real-estate sized Bridgewire sign at the street entrance.
An alleyway across the street from a bus stop and empty field.
An A-frame sign on the sidewalk pointing to “Classes.”

Where do I park? Parallel parking is available against the fence around the back of the building. No permit is required for camp participants despite any signage. Please do not park near the front or directly against the building.

Is there public transportation? Yes, there is a Route 18 bus stop directly across the street. You can text RENO1778 to 41411 for real-time arrival updates.

Class fees and donations: Class fees include all materials including lunch and snacks. Please notify staff of any food allergies in advance. If you would like to provide additional support for our mission, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to Galena Tech Institute at GalenaTech.org. Your contributions help us expand access to technical programs for local youth.

May parents and guardians remain on site? Yes, parents or guardians may stay in adjacent rooms provided they have also signed the required liability waiver.

What is the minimum age? Our Youth Summer Robotics Camp is open to students aged 13–17. We have consolidated our sessions into this single age group to foster a collaborative learning environment.

What tools will my student learn to use? Students receive hands-on safety training with materials like wood, plastic, and aluminum. All students in the 13–17 age group will learn to use:

Hand Tools: Hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, snips, levels, clamps, handsaws, hacksaws, chisels, files, box knives, and punches.
Power & Specialty Tools: Palm sanders, power drills and drivers with various bits, thread taps, soldering irons, wire strippers, crimpers, multimeter, and heat guns.
Advanced Equipment: Jigsaws, multipurpose power tools, drill presses, belt and disc sanders, Dremels (without cutoff wheels), metal bandsaws, and sheet metal pan & box brakes.

What is the refund policy? We do not offer refunds. You may switch your registration to another session (if space allows) or transfer it to another student if you contact us at least 3 days in advance at camp.gti@gmail.com.

Other questions? Please contact the Galena Tech Institute staff at academe.gti@gmail.com or call/text (775) 420-4483