Join David Young and Thomas Gabel, a high school teacher from Central Texas, as they discuss Thomas' innovative drone curriculum spanning three years of coursework. In this engaging episode, you'll learn about the fascinating journey of teaching drones to high school students, from paper airplanes to obtaining FAA Part 107 certification, real-world applications, and even internship opportunities.

Thomas shares the structure of his three-year drone program, covering principles of aviation, flight simulations, drone operations, mapping and modeling, real estate videography, search and rescue missions, and more. Discover how he incorporates hands-on experiences, industry collaborations, and real-world problem-solving to make learning engaging and relevant for his students.

Whether you're an educator, administrator, or simply interested in drones and STEM education, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Tune in to learn about the challenges, successes, and valuable lessons Thomas has encountered while pioneering this cutting-edge curriculum in his school district.

Matt Ernst is an educator at Aiken New Tech High School in Cincinnati, Ohio who runs a drone class for high school students. In this episode, he discusses how he got the drone program started, the process of getting funding and community partners involved, and the real-world opportunities he provides for students.

Some key highlights:

• Students can earn 6 out of 12 required graduation points by obtaining their Part 107 commercial drone license through Matt's class
• In the class, students learn material to pass the 107 exam while also getting hands-on flight time with drones like the Tello and Phantom 4
• Students have worked on projects like filming drone video tours for a local retirement community and mapping the school's agricultural farm
• Matt partners with a nonprofit called Partnerships in Innovation and Education that helps secure grants and funding for equipment
• He advises other educators to get administrators and community partners on board to start a successful drone program

Matt shares valuable insights into implementing drones in the classroom and connecting students with practical STEM learning experiences. Whether you're an educator, student, or drone enthusiast, this is an episode you won't want to miss!

Adrian Mayo is a true STEM hero! In this inspiring episode, we hear from Adrian, a former professional clown with Ringling Brothers Circus who is now passionately educating kids about drones and technology. Adrian shares his incredible journey of how he got started teaching drone camps and workshops after being inspired by kids' excitement for drones at an after-school program.

Despite having no military background, Adrian's innovative teaching methods and dedication to helping all students learn, including those with autism, led him to become a member of the prestigious Tuskegee Airmen organization. He now instructs at their annual drone camp, working alongside retired Air Force officers to inspire the next generation of engineers and pilots.

Adrian's infectious energy and moving stories of seeing kids' confidence soar as they learn to fly drones will leave you motivated. He offers wisdom for educators on getting started with drones, emphasizing the value of attending air shows to experience the thrill in person. Whether you're a teacher, student, or just looking for an uplifting story, don't miss Adrian's incredible path from clowning to trucking to becoming a passionate drone instructor changing kids' lives.

Email Adrian at technoclownpart5@gmail.com
His website is Ileveleddrones.com