Students came together from across the nation for the UAS4STEM sponsored by Skydio national championship competition during AirVenture in Oshkosh WI. The student teams built their own drones and competed in various flying challenges for a shot at the national title. The competition is designed to encourage students to learn about small uncrewed aircraft systems through teamwork, competition, and success through STEM, via a mission challenge that requires drone construction and programming. This year our competitors were met by acting FAA Administrator Billy Nolen who was impressed by the technical prowess and abilities of Team McIntosh Aeronautics of Peachtree City GA; ultimately becoming the 2022 UAS4STEM first-place finishers. A close second place was earned by Civil Air Patrol’s Redstone Composite Squadron of Huntsville, AL. Some Assembly Required of Rockville MD rounded out our podium with their third place finish.
The Dewey O. Broberg Jr. Scholarship was awarded by competition judges to recognize a student who showed dedication to their team, determination, and adherence to the rules and purpose of the competition. Congratulations to Tuesday Muse of Team Midtown from Atlanta GA, the recipient of the 2022 Dewey O. Broberg Jr. Scholarship.
Skydio, the presenting sponsor of UAS4STEM 2022, was an integral part of this year’s successful competition. Two members of the Skydio team were available to answer questions, offer critique, and serve as judges during Flight Readiness Review presentations (FRR) and mission flight operations at the EAA Jepson House Depot in Camp Sholler. Winning teams were awarded with Skydio 2+ and Skydio 2 Pro kits, ensuring the teams have access to professional-grade drones. These aircraft will help students in their future efforts after they achieve their FAA part 107 pilot certifications, having received preparatory training though UAS4STEM’s virtual ground school. An added benefit of utilizing these American manufactured products is the possibility of assisting in search and rescue missions within their communities using a drone that is NDAA approved.
The Academy of Model Aeronautics would like to once again thank the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) for their support of the UAS4STEM program. Their ability to host a celebration of aviation like no other is unparalleled. The opportunity for our students, team mentors, and parents to enjoy all of what aviation has to offer through the support of EAA at this event is life-changing for our participants, and we couldn’t be more honored to be a part of this incredible event. Our most sincere thanks go out to our partner, EAA, as we look forward to continuing to positively influence future aviators.
UAS4STEM continues it’s International competitor openings in 2023!
UAS4STEM has provided an exciting competition to students from across the nation since its inception, but the need for STEM programming doesn’t stop at our border. As the global leader in all things model aviation, the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) is proud to continue to accept international competitors to UAS4STEM. Registration opens September 1, with a virtual preliminary competition to be held in April, from which top-scoring teams will be invited to the national competition next summer to be held once again at AirVenture in Oshkosh WI. For more information, visit www.uas4stem.org or contact education@modelaircraft.org.