Drones and robots are way more than just cool toys.

They are lots of fun and can also teach you skills in emerging technologies that will prepare you for a future STEM career. These technologies directly link to automation and many other high-paying professions. Make this your first step to your future in a STEM career!

Come and enjoy operating drones and robots. We have many programs to get Charlotte youth engaged in STEM activities. Join us to find out how you can get involved!

DroneScape - Drone Demonstrations

Drones are physics and math and coding and engineering all rolled up into a flying robot of fun. Join us for a drone demonstration and learn about how drones are being used in commercial applications today. Have you seen some of the recent cool aerial video footage? Drones have the ability to capture a new vantage point of the world from high above.

DroneScape will present videos introducing a wide range of drone applications and illustrate the wide-ranging career opportunities that they present. Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) are an emerging technology that is creating new and exciting opportunities in education with a broad impact on many careers. Come learn about this exciting technology and get hands on experience in the operation of a UAS.

Drone demonstrations will be outdoors where participants have lots of space to operate the drones safely. In case of inclement weather, the demo will be moved indoors where a smaller drone will be substituted. In this case, participants will not be able to operate the drones due to safety issues within a confined space.

QCRA FIRST* Robotics Teams - Robot Demonstrations

The QCRA robotics program uses FIRST robotics competitions to promote STEM in a project based learning environment and to help students explore career paths in STEM fields. Come meet high school robotics teams and learn how you can get involved in one of our programs.

QCRA will present videos of past robotics team competitions and share with you the many STEM careers that you can pursue. Mentors will be available to interact with visitors to explain how these robot-building skills link to STEM jobs that are in high demand. 

Robot demonstrations will be set up in the gym. Participants are invited to experience what it's like to drive one themselves. Robotics team members and volunteers will be available to explain our programs.

* FIRST = For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology

About the organizers

Enhancing STEM education in the local community has long been one of the key objectives for Carolinas Aviation Museum (CAM) and Queen City Robotics Alliance (QCRA). Sharing this common vision, CAM and QCRA believe that together we will create an even bigger impact with our synergy by empowering students to be prepared for the future of work in technology, engineering, aviation, and aerospace careers.

This event is sponsored by Culture Blocks— a community partnership funded by Mecklenburg County.

What is STEM?

• STEM stands for Science, Technology Engineering, and Mathematics. STEM represents a unique approach to teaching and learning designed to encourage problem-solving, developing both practical skills and appreciation for collaborations.

• STEM employs a multi-discipline approach to learning by integrating multiple areas of study into cohesive learning programs based on real-world applications.

• STEM education creates critical thinkers, increases science literacy, and enables the next generation of innovators.

Why you should consider pursuing a STEM career

• An excellent job outlook: Careers related to STEM are on the Bureau of Labor Statistics' list of occupations the government agency predicts will have the highest average employment growth over the next decade.

• High earnings: STEM workers earn a median annual salary of $84,880. That is more than double the $37,020 median wage non-STEM workers earn.

• Jobs are available at all educational levels: Regardless of the level of education you plan to attain - high school diploma or associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree - you can find a suitable STEM occupation.

Some STEM Careers include:

• Actuarial Science
• Aerospace
• Agriculture
• Air Traffic Controller
• Architect
• Aviation
• Biochemistry
• Computer Technician
• Data Analysis
• Dental Hygienist
• Dentist
• Drone Pilot
• Electrician
• Engineer
• Graphic Designer
• Health Care Professional
• Information Security Analysis
• Information Technology
• Machinist
• Manufacturing Technologist
• Medical doctor
• Scientist
• Software Development
• Statistician
• Technical Writing
• Website Developer
• Welder