Under the Hood - Machine Learning and AI Summer Program

New for Summer 2026: Under the Hood

Our flagship AI summer program has evolved. Since 2018, we have welcomed hundreds of students to the University of Minnesota to explore the world of data. To reflect our deepening curriculum and our transition to the UMN Data Science and AI Hub (DSAI), the program formerly known as Run the World: AI Explorers has been rebranded and expanded into Under the Hood: A Data Science & AI Experience.

• Week 1 (Beginner (July 13 - 17) , 8:30 am – 4:00 pm): $125 *This course is required for participation in Week 2

• Week 2 (Advanced (July 20 - 24), 8:30 am – 4:00 pm): $175

Why "Under the Hood"?

In a world where AI tools like ChatGPT and image generators are everywhere, we believe it’s not enough to just know how to use them. Under the Hood is designed to pull back the curtain on the "black box" of technology. We empower rising 11th and 12th graders to understand the mathematical engines, the Python code, and the ethical frameworks that drive modern innovation.

What’s New for 2026?

This year, we’ve moved beyond a single-session model to offer a tiered, two-week immersive experience:

• Week 1 (Intro to ML): Perfect for beginners. Master Python fundamentals and build your first predictive models using real-world data from ecology and sports.

• Week 2 (Advanced Deep Learning): For those ready for more. Dive into Neural Networks, Computer Vision, and Generative AI using industry-standard tools like PyTorch.

• Integrated Experience: Students will now spend more time in UMN’s premier labs (Keller and Tate Halls), interacting with autonomous robotics and hearing from world-class researchers.

Bundle both weeks for a full-immersion experience!

Learn more and Register for 2026 Summer Program

A Legacy of Innovation: The Prior Camp Experience

Since 2018, the University of Minnesota has been at the forefront of high school AI outreach. What began as the <RUN>: \ THE\ WORLD Machine Learning Summer Day Camp—a partnership between the School of Statistics, the School of Mathematics, and the Data Science and AI Hub (DSAI)—has grown into a premier national destination for aspiring data scientists.

For years, this program has welcomed students from across the Twin Cities and beyond to demystify the "black box" of Artificial Intelligence. Under its original "AI Explorers" branding, the camp established a tradition of hands-on, project-based learning that we continue to build upon today.

The AI Explorers Foundation

In previous sessions, campers spent an intensive week diving into machine learning, working with real-world datasets from medicine, history, and ecology. Our alumni didn't just study theory; they conducted data-driven investigations into topics they were passionate about, including:

• Predictive Modeling: Identifying poisonous mushrooms or forecasting Minnesota snow days.

• Classification: Building models to identify Pokémon or diagnose diseases.

• Creative AI: Generating custom designs and smarter purchase recommendations.

In the Words of Our Alumni

The impact of this program is best told by the students who have walked the halls of Keller and Tate:

"I enjoyed figuring out how to use different techniques in Python, as well as talking to the instructors one-on-one."

"My favorite part was getting to work on the projects. Interacting with the data was an amazing experience… It was amazing to meet new people who shared diverse backgrounds but also similar interests."

"This program has been phenomenal. I’ve learned so much, made so many connections, and it has kindled a passion for a career in Data Science."

View 2025 Camp Highlights

Looking Forward

While the name has changed to Under the Hood, the core mission remains: transforming students from tech consumers into tech creators. We are proud of our history as AI Explorers and invite you to join us for the next chapter of this journey.

Explore the 2026 "Under the Hood" Program