What is TexTEC?
This day camp introduces high school students interested in technology, engineering and chemistry (TEC) to the world of textiles.
This year, TexTEC will be offered at two locations: the Wilson College of Textiles in Raleigh, North Carolina, and the Textile Technology Center at Gaston College in Belmont, North Carolina. You can compare the two camps below.
Over the course of two days, TexTEC campers at both locations engage in hands-on learning in the institutions’ innovative labs through experiments and tours.
They also learn about:
- Degree programs offered by the Wilson College’s Department of Textile Engineering, Chemistry and Science.
- Scholarships available through the Wilson College.
- The admissions process for NC State University.
- Students at the Gaston College location learn about scholarships, admissions processes and degree programs related to both institutions.
Plus, they get to screen print their own camp swag.
Comparing TexTEC Camps
| TexTEC at NC State | TexTEC at Gaston College | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Wilson College of Textiles (Raleigh, NC) | Textile Technology Center at Gaston College (Belmont, NC) |
| Cost | $45 | $45 |
| Applications Due | June 16 | May 17 |
| Camp Dates | July 16-17 | June 17-18 |
TexTEC in Photos
Take a look at what it’s like to be a TexTEC student!
Students are eligible for TexTEC if they:
- Are a rising sophomore, junior or senior in high school,
- Are not enrolled in the Summer Textile Exploration Program,
- And are able to provide their own housing, as well as their own transportation to and from the location of their selected camp.
Cost and Financial Aid
No matter which location you attend, TexTEC costs $45 and is payable upon acceptance. Your $45 registration fee and camp forms must be completed online. Please do not mail us a check for payment.
We will not be able to refund this fee if you cancel the week of TexTEC. Financial assistance may be available on a case by case basis. Please contact us for details.
Application Information
The due date for your application depends on where you apply:
- Gaston College location: May 17
- Wilson College of Textiles location: June 16
Applicants are selected on a rolling basis. Acceptance is based on available space and the qualifications of those applying.

Preparing to Attend
The information below is specific to TexTEC Camp at NC State. Stay tuned for more information about preparing for the Gaston College location!
Schedule
- Thursday
- 8-8:15 a.m.: Drop off camp participants
- 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m.: TexTEC programming
- 5-7 p.m.: Dinner for camp participants and guardians
- Friday
- 8-8:15 a.m.: Drop off camp participants
- 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m.: TexTEC programming
- 4 p.m.: Guardians join camp participants for a closing event
Dress Code
In order to stay safe while in the lab, long pants and closed-toe shoes are required (plus a hair tie if you hair is long enough to use one).
Food
Breakfast, lunch and snacks will be provided each day. Dietary needs will be accommodated.
Directions and Parking
- Airport information and driving directions
- Parking map for NC State’s Centennial Campus. Look for areas of this map with the “pay by plate” icon.
Contact Us
Questions? We’d love to hear from you! Email tex-summer-programs@ncsu.edu or call 919.515.6640 during normal business hours.