The NC State University College of Engineering is an internationally recognized producer of engineers and computer scientists who are prepared to make an immediate contribution to the workforce. Our research faculty are recognized around the world for cutting edge research. Essential to our mission and continued success is a steady stream of top-notch students who contribute to and celebrate ethnic, academic and gender diversity. Each year an entering freshman class of 1100 new engineering students includes 20% women and 20% underrepresented minority students. The rate at which they persist through our undergraduate program is impacted by how they adapt during their first year. Following a successful recruiting cycle, we then invite targeted students to enter our engineering programs during the summer session as participants in the NC State University Summer Transition Program. The purpose of this program is to begin enhancing the academic and social maturation of incoming minority engineering freshmen prior to the start of the regular academic year. Fifty to 75 students participate in this program conducted during the second summer academic session. Participants receive instruction and where applicable, academic course credits in mathematics, English, and a science course. In addition, they gain early hands-on experience in engineering design, and an introduction to the College of Engineering computing environment. Weekly industry site visits introduce the students to opportunities available to them as they move through their undergraduate program and seek permanent employment. This paper provides a detailed description of this six-week summer bridge program. We present a summary of our national profile, and share data on the impact the program is having on the quality of our students as they persist toward graduation.