K-12
The results of the hard work we do at Drone Flight School are clear in the confidence, skills, and curiosity we see in our students. Participants leave the program not only knowing how to fly drones safely and effectively but also understanding how this technology fits into real-world careers and problem-solving. We've watched students go from never having touched a drone to completing complex flight missions, mentoring peers, and even speaking publicly about their experiences. More than just flight skills, we foster leadership, creativity, and a mindset of innovation—giving students the tools to soar both in the air and in life.
Futures in Flight is more than a program—it’s a runway to tomorrow’s careers. Drones aren’t just about flying anymore; they’re part of an ecosystem that touches nearly every major industry. Behind every successful flight are AI engineers designing autonomous systems, cybersecurity experts protecting drone data, technicians ensuring fleet readiness, environmental scientists using aerial insights to drive sustainability, and legal minds navigating evolving airspace regulations.
Great for after school!
Ready-to-run out of the box, the FPV Initiator program immerses students in first-person view (FPV) drone piloting, equipping them with real-world precision flight skills, spatial awareness, and situational control. Through structured training and guided practice, students master essential techniques such as manual flight control, racecourse navigation, and obstacle avoidance. Beyond skill development, FPV Initiator serves as a gateway to competitive drone racing, connecting students with the Unified Scholastic Drone Racing Association (USDRA), the leading organization for student drone racing.
With FPV Initiator, students progress from fundamental FPV operations to high-speed competition, participating in both real-world and virtual races hosted by the USDRA. The program fosters STEM engagement, teamwork, and a competitive spirit while opening doors to future opportunities in drone technology, aeronautics, and robotics. Whether aiming to become elite drone racers or future UAV professionals, students gain a strong foundation in FPV flight and an entry point into the exciting world of drone sports and innovation.
Drone Flight School Youth Camps: Igniting Curiosity, One Flight at a Time
These unique drone experiences are made possible through the Drone Flight School, a signature program of the Franklin Center for Innovation. The Drone Flight School is more than just flying drones—it's a hands-on, minds-on approach to learning, innovation, and team development.
For youth, our multi-day camps for 4th–8th graders offer an immersive learning environment where students build STEM skills, boost their confidence, and explore real-world drone applications like search and rescue, aerial photography, and obstacle navigation. It’s not just camp—it’s future career training wrapped in fun.
For adults, our one-day corporate retreats offer a dynamic alternative to the typical trust fall. Teams engage in aerial challenges designed to build communication, critical thinking, and leadership under pressure. It’s perfect for businesses, nonprofits, or school teams looking to boost collaboration while exploring cutting-edge tech in a low-risk, high-reward setting.
All of these programs are fueled by the mission of the Drone Flight School—to make drone technology accessible, engaging, and empowering for all ages. Whether you're 10 or 50, there's a place for you to fly.
"The Rise of Legends" by Jake Zortman
Mikaela Kadono is bummed when her parents move the family to a creepy, old, fixer-upper house, leaving behind her friends, school and familiar neighborhood. But things quickly look up when she meets her new neighbor, George, who invites her to join a cool club called Drone Legends. Little does Mikaela know that this will be the first step in a life-changing adventure!
On The Drone Legends very first mission, a nearly tragic accident brings a mysterious, talking AI drone into their lives. But was it really an accident? And who created this drone that seems to be far beyond any available technology? As they search for answers, Mikaela discovers that the old house her parents bought holds a secret - a cryptic message from the past, hidden in riddles and codes. With the help of her new friends, they embark on a quest to solve the mystery, which takes them on a perilous journey from adventure on the high seas to secret tunnels deep beneath the ground.
AERO - Each journey is a quest for discovery!
