Ideas That Think: AI Fish Tank Summer Camp

Where Innovation Meets Imagination

This August, students from across the region logged in to the CFI Robotics Online Academy for AI Fish Tank: Think. Build. Pitch., a one-of-a-kind summer camp that blends artificial intelligence with entrepreneurship. Over the course of five sessions, students learned how AI is shaping the world around them, explored beginner-friendly coding and machine learning tools, and designed their own startups built around real-world problems.

The camp was designed to be more than just a class. It was an opportunity for students to think critically, work collaboratively, and turn bold ideas into tangible projects. Guided by instructors Jenny Mei and Andy Gu, students stepped into the role of innovators and business founders, gaining skills and confidence that will serve them far beyond the classroom.

Exploring the Past, Present, and Future of AI

The week began with a deep dive into what artificial intelligence is, how it has evolved, and where it is headed. Students explored the many ways AI impacts industries and daily life, then worked in groups to brainstorm business ideas that could harness AI to meet the needs of specific audiences.

From lifeguard emergency detection to gardening assistants and choreography support tools, their creativity was on full display as they pitched their first concepts and exchanged feedback with peers and instructors. This collaborative exercise set the stage for the hands-on projects to come.

From Concepts to Prototypes

Midway through the week, students shifted from ideas to action. They explored beginner-friendly Python coding and experimented with accessible AI tools, building foundational skills to support their projects. They also learned how workflow automation platforms and machine learning models can power real-world applications in business, technology, and everyday problem-solving.

With these skills in hand, students began refining their business concepts into functioning prototypes. They used user-friendly AI tools to train simple models, explored ways to incorporate automation, and prepared to integrate these elements into their final presentations.

Pitching Big Ideas

The camp concluded with a showcase that brought together everything students had learned. During the AI Fish Tank Pitch Event, each participant presented their business concept to instructors, guests, and peers, explaining the problem they set out to solve, how their AI solution worked, and what made their approach unique.

The creativity and ambition of the projects impressed everyone in attendance. Students demonstrated how AI can be applied in surprising and meaningful ways, from improving safety and efficiency to sparking creativity and solving everyday challenges.

Thank You to Our Instructors

This program would not have been possible without the dedication and leadership of Jenny Mei and Andy Gu, who guided students through each step of their journey from concept to final pitch. Their mentorship inspired students to think bigger, aim higher, and see themselves as the innovators of tomorrow.

We are proud of every student who participated in AI Fish Tank and look forward to seeing where their ideas lead. Camps like this are a reminder that with curiosity, collaboration, and creativity, the next generation is ready to shape the future of technology.