Idaho Drone League (iDrone) to Stimulate STEM workforce

Abstract

The Idaho Drone League (iDrone) was launched to inspire the next generation’s 8 workforce through engagement with STEM research and education. Idaho youth (middle/high 9 school students) participated in four two-day drone workshops in locations across Idaho. The 10 workshops integrated computer science, technology, engineering, and STEM career education. 11 Students worked in groups to build, fly, and program drones and learned federal regulations and 12 safety guidelines. The students interacted with local professionals using their professional drones 13 at the workshop and in addition were introduced to drone research applications. Throughout the 14 workshops, the students also shared and explored their own creative ideas for future drone 15 applications and technologies. The preliminary results from student surveys demonstrate that 16 iDrone can improve the preparedness of Idaho youth for college and careers in STEM fields.