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HERKIMER, N.Y. -- The classroom may be just a distant memory for some kids on summer vacation, but one group of students in Herkimer County are spending their time off building on their knowledge of science, technology engineering and math.

The first day of Robo Mini Camp kicked off Monday at Herkimer County Community College. It's the second year for the program sponsored by the college and Rome's Air Force Research Lab.

The first day revolved around programming robots to do simple tasks, but eventually they'll be able to complete obstacle courses.

Instructors say it's a stepping stone into the FIRST Lego League robotics competitions, as well as a lifelong interest in STEM subjects.

"Kids love technology. Whether it's their iPhones, their iPods, I mean stuff that I don't even understand, but they're using every single day basically without even trying. Basically this integrates all that stuff with math, science, so they're learning without knowing it," said instructor Jordan Purinton.

Time Warner Cable's "Connect a Million Minds" program also aims to get kids interested in science, technology, engineering, and math. To learn more, visit connectamillionminds.com.