Summer Business Boot Camp
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Launch of Program: 2023
We invite high school students (open to rising 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders) to our Summer Business Boot Camp. High school students will learn about business topics, like leadership and entrepreneurship, as well as choosing majors and minors, preparing for professional careers, and gaining admission into Rutgers School of Business–Camden (RSBC). They will also have the opportunity to network with business professionals, professors, staff, undergraduate students, and other high school students, as well as take a tour of Rutgers University–Camden.
This free Boot Camp is designed to be fun-filled and interactive. The 2026 Summer Business Boot Camp will be held on:
Monday, June 8, 2026 from 9:00 am – 3:30 pm
Campus Center, Multi-Purpose Room
326 Penn St., Camden, NJ 08102
Practice Your Pitch: Sustainability in Entrepreneurship Utilizing AI
Interested in business, sustainability, and AI? In just one fast-paced, interactive session at the RSBC Summer Business Boot Camp, you’ll learn how to develop a business concept, incorporating sustainability, then shape it into a clear, confident pitch using the power of AI.
During this Business Boot Camp, you will:
- Explore how sustainability connects to real business ideas
- Use AI tools to quickly research and strengthen your concept
- Learn the key elements of an effective elevator pitch
- Practice presenting your idea in teams in a supportive, high-energy environment.
You’ll walk away with practical tools you can use in class projects, competitions, or future ventures. Plus, you’ll gain greater confidence speaking about your ideas.
If you’re curious about business, innovation, or making a positive impact, this session is a great way to sharpen your skills and see what’s possible, all in just one afternoon.
Agenda
Presenters
Dr. Akeel Gaines
Akeel Gaines earned his Doctorate in Education and brings a wealth of expertise in operations, leadership strategy, business planning, general counsel, and industry research. As Director of the NJSBDC at Rutgers–Camden, Akeel oversees the center’s strategic initiatives, ensuring operations align with the needs of small business owners across Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, and Salem counties.
With a career foundation rooted in education and institutional leadership, Akeel is adept at guiding organizations through complex challenges and fostering growth. He works collaboratively with clients and partner organizations to deliver tailored business solutions—from startup planning and operational optimization to leadership development and compliance guidance.
Under his leadership, the Rutgers–Camden SBDC continues to deliver high-impact consulting services, promote entrepreneurship, and support regional economic vitality through data-driven insights and strategic partnerships.
Patricia Taitt-Forrester
Patricia Taitt-Forrester is a workforce development consultant and executive leadership coach with expertise in talent pipeline strategy, small business advisory services, and professional identity development.
As Founder and President of Triumph Business & Career Solutions, she partners with higher education institutions, public agencies, and entrepreneurs to design workforce readiness programs, externship models, and leadership development initiatives that strengthen economic mobility and business growth.
She serves as an Executive Business Coach for Columbia University’s CU Grow Vendor Development Program and has led internship and leadership initiatives within the Rutgers Future Scholars program that prepare students for professional environments in business, law, and public service.
Patricia holds graduate degrees in Education from Rutgers University and in Leadership & Administration from Montclair State University.
Summer Business Boot Camp Photos - 2024
Summer Business Boot Camp Photos - 2023
For more information about Summer Business Boot Camp contact:
Shy Yi, M.S.W., Ed.M.
Assistant Dean
Student Engagement and Business Honors
(856) 225-2742
shy.yi@rutgers.edu