New College Institute (NCI) is launching Build & Fly with VMI, an engaging and hands-on event designed for students ages 13-18 to experience drone science and learn about career options in robotics and innovation. The event is set for February 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at NCI, which is located at 191 Fayette Street, Martinsville.
Through hands-on, interactive experiences, students will get an up-close look at drone mechanics, discover the physics that makes them fly, and explore the wide range of tasks drones can perform across different industries. Rather than just observing, students will actively participate every step of the way—engaging in real-world applications and unlocking the potential of this cutting-edge technology.
“As drones continue to transform industries like agriculture, healthcare, environmental monitoring, transportation, and media, students can gain valuable skills in areas such as robotics, aerodynamics, data analysis, and geographic information systems (GIS),” explains NCI Chief Academic Officer Dr. Susheela Shanta. “This event encourages cross-disciplinary learning, as students can explore the potential to shape the future of industries and even contribute to societal betterment.”
This is a free event, but space is limited. NCI has partnered with Virginia Military Institute, iVue Robotics, Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) and Shenandoah University to bring this event to Martinsville.
“Using drones in STEM education is not just about flying; it’s about fostering a problem solving mindset,” states Dr. Sherif Abdelhamid, Assistant Professor for the Department of Computer & Information Sciences at Virginia Military Institute. “Whether it is mapping disaster-struck areas, monitoring wildlife, or optimizing logistics, drones can empower students to see the bigger picture of how STEM skills can be used to make a meaningful impact. Additionally, integrating drones with programming makes the learning experience more engaging by turning abstract coding concepts into hands-on experiences.”
“As the industry for drone technology and advanced air mobility continues to grow, it is imperative that we meet the demand through a trained workforce that can operate these systems safely in the national airspace system,” Dr. Melissa Stange, Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Shenandoah University. “The only way this can be achieved is through STEM educational programs that engage our future workforce not only for jobs of today, but jobs that have yet been created. Drones provide a unique way of practicing cybersecurity concepts or creating virtual reality experiences.”
Registration is required. To register or learn more about this event, please visit https://newcollegeinstitute.org/event/build-fly-with-vmi/.
