UAS4STEM Students Are Proven Systems Engineers:
Participants don’t just assemble kits; they design, build, program, and fly a complex Uncrewed Aircraft System (UAS) from individual components. They master hands-on fabrication, systems integration, and autonomous programming.
UAS4STEM Students Are Experienced Communicators:
Through a formal Flight Readiness Review, students must defend their engineering designs and risk mitigation strategies to a panel of judges from FAA, NASA, and the aviation industry.
UAS4STEM Students Are Credential-Ready:
The program’s mandatory ground school prepares students for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, the federal license required for professional drone operation. Ardupilot certification is also available. They have earned or are prepared to pursue industry-recognized credentials.
UAS4STEM Students Are Experienced Leaders and Collaborators:
Students learn to manage long-term projects, lead teams under pressure, and make critical decisions. They are experienced in working together to acheive their goals.
UAS4STEM Students Are Endorsed by America’s Elite:
Guest judges from the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) stated, “…the UAS4STEM competition adequately prepares students to conduct UAS missions at the level that we would expect from our own AFSOC crews”.
Teams work on this competition for months and deserve recognition for their time and effort. Top teams earn different awards depending on their score and competition division.
Beginner Division
First place, beginner division, at the championship competition is awarded $1,250 along with a Skydio S2+ Pro Drone kit.
Second place, beginner division, at the championship competition is awarded $1,000.
Third place, beginner division, at the championship competition is awarded $750.
Advanced Division
First place, advanced division, at the championship competition is awarded $2,500 along with a Skydio S2+ Pro Drone kit.
Second place, advanced division, at the championship competition is awarded $2,000 along with a Skydio S2+ Pro Drone kit.
Third place, advanced division, at the championship competition is awarded $1,500.
The Dewey O. Broberg Jr. award is presented by competition judges to recognize a student who shows dedication to their team, determination, and adherence to the rules and purpose of the competition.
The winner is awarded $500.
