One hundred students from Bay, Gulf, Holmes and Walton County are spending the week at science camp learning about science, technology and mathematics.

"I learned about composites and different parts of robots and different things you can go into with engineering," said Maggie Kolovich, a student.

STEM Camp, which stands for Science, Technology and Mathematics, is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense. The purpose is to encourage students to pursue careers in those fields.

"I'm going for either engineering, mechanical engineering, or going into the medical field," said Kasey Lugo, a student.

Teachers say sometimes students are turned off by bad stereotypes.

"Pocket protector, thick glasses, working in a lab doesn't really appeal to many students. However, what they're telling the kids now and showing them is they do some really cool stuff," said Todd Flanary, a Bonifay Middle teacher.

And for those who do pursue these careers, the payoff can be significant right here in the panhandle.

"Students can actually go from the community college to Florida State University and even work at some place like the Naval Surface Warfare Center or Tyndall Air Force Base, and if they start off as an engineer their starting salaries are mid 50's, $55,000 a year," said Ed Linsenmeyer, stem coordinator.

Friday is the final day of STEM Camp. This is the first year for the program, and coordinators say it's been very successful.