Two students find friendship—and a passion for STEM—at Indiana Tech summer camp

October 27, 2026

Friendship has a way of finding people when they least expect it, weaving two lives together through experiences that appear ordinary at first.

For Zane and Malik, a week at one of Indiana Tech’s STEAM Academy summer camps sparked a connection that neither of them could have predicted. What began as a chance meeting soon grew into a friendship that extended far beyond camp.

The two met during the 2025 Middle School Build + Learn Camp, which teaches students about creativity, communication, collaboration and critical thinking through STEM-focused projects and activities over the course of a week. Despite being from different schools and family backgrounds, and even different grades—Zane was in eighth grade, Malik was in sixth at the time—they became fast friends.

While they both share an interest in STEM, their connection was built on sports, specifically football and basketball.

“When the boys get together, they are often doing one of those things, and of course eating!” Zane’s mom Erica Dice said. “They will throw the football around in the park, play basketball in the driveway or play College Football 27 on PlayStation. My family has even been able to support Malik’s school football team, cheering for him at his games.”

“Erica and I have taken them both on outings—lights at the zoo, botanical gardens, movies, splash pads, among other activities,” said Michelle King, Malik’s mom. “They enjoy simply hanging out around the house, as well.”

The pair and their families also attended the Fort Wayne stop of Dude Perfect’s Squad Games Tour together in July.

While Zane and Malik have sustained their friendship beyond their time with the STEAM Academy, their individual experiences in the camp are proving to be valuable as they continue their education.

King says that Malik benefitted from the camp’s project-based learning, as well as the team project activities.