Students across Florida took flight on April 25 during the Drones in School Florida State Championship, held at the prestigious Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach. The groundbreaking event welcomed 32 middle schools and high school teams, all vying for a coveted spot at the national STEM Drone Racing Championship this May in Houston, Texas.
Supported by Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) and Embry-Riddle, the competition highlighted the ingenuity, teamwork and technical skills of Florida’s next generation of STEM leaders. Participants tackled a series of high-intensity challenges, including obstacle courses, scrimmages and capture-the-flag-style drills.
Teams from Boca Raton stood out among the competition: 6 Arrows from A.D. Henderson University School took first place in Middle School Overall Placing, while Cypress Speeds, also from A.D. Henderson, claimed second in the same category. The Donna Klein Jewish Academy Eagles earned third place in both the High School and Middle School Overall Placing categories.
Beyond drone racing, the event also served as a platform for students to connect with like-minded peers, mentors and industry professionals united by a shared passion for drone technology and innovation.
“I love this program because I like bonding with my team and I’m gaining so much experience,” said Ethan Henry, a student at A.D. Henderson University School. “I want to be an electrical engineer when I grow up and I’m going to need to know these key components.”
Students also explored Embry-Riddle’s campus and learned about its cutting-edge programs in drone and autonomous robotics — spanning air, land, sea and space.
This year marked FPL’s fifth time supporting the Drones in School initiative. “At FPL, we are deeply committed to supporting the advancement of robotics and drones in education. It has been inspiring to watch this STEM sport advance in our state,” said Sarah Marmion, FPL senior manager for education programs. “This program provides students with the tools and opportunities to explore and excel in cutting-edge technology and together with our partners, we are helping build a brighter future for all.”
For more information, visit fpl.com.
Photo courtesy of Florida Power & Light Company
6 Arrows from A.D. Henderson University School in Boca Raton celebrate their victory at the Drones in School Florida State Championship.