Australian Army and Navy drone racers spent a day with secondary students at the Ballarat TAFE 'Girls in STEM' program, demonstrating what future careers could be on offer within the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Held at Federation University in early November, drone racers Sapper Alex Brown, Private Hamish Glover, Seaman Henry Heron and Able Seaman Grace Piesse-Smith showed the 50 Year 8 and Year 9 students some of the real-time applications of digital technology, including drones, military capability and 3D printing.
Army Drone Racing Team captain Sapper Brown said that apart from being fun, drone racing built knowledge in STEM pathways.
"We are always really thrilled to be part of programs that provide greater access for young people to engage with STEM and learn about drone racing as a sport, but also the digital skills that you learn along the way," Sapper Brown said.
"A lot of the students on the program have a real interest in career pathways in STEM and they had a lot of questions about military careers and life in the services. Able Seaman Piesse-Smith has just returned from sea so it was fantastic that she could share her experiences with the group."
ADF Drone Racing Association president Wing Commander Keirin Joyce said the demonstrations were a great opportunity for students.
"Wherever we go, the drone racing team tries to engage as many young people as we can to show them how much fun there is in drone racing and also the huge potential in the future within the STEM fields," Wing Commander Joyce said.
