PRATT — Pratt Community College Electrical Power Technology Program will host a mini boot camp for high school juniors and seniors with Westar Energy, June 11-12 on the college’s main campus at the EPT Center’s training field.

During the camp students will learn how to climb poles, learn about safety, communication skills and teamwork.

"Westar really focuses on communication skills and teamwork in potential employees," said Lane Gourley, EPT instructor. "It will be really fun for the students but safety will be the number one concern."

Gourley said the point of the camp is to allow students to experience the program before deciding if they want to pursue it as a major. Westar is providing all of the tools for the camp, which Gourley said is a huge plus since the tools run about $1,200.

"We have students who come into the program thinking they will pursue a degree in EPT and then realize it’s not for them because they are afraid of heights or don’t like climbing the poles," Gourley said. "This will be a great way from them to decide without having to buy the equipment."

Students should be in fair physical condition and not be afraid of heights.

The camp will cost each student $85, which will get the students lunch both days, drinks during the classes, climbing gear and a hard hat. They will also earn one credit hour.

The event will be open to 22 high school juniors and seniors. Students should enroll by June 1. To find out more information or to enroll, contact Michelle Tiengo at (620)450-2161 or michellet@prattcc.edu.