FAQ

What exactly does my team need to do for this competition?

Your team will be challenged with a specific mission using a drone, which varies depending on whether you choose to compete in the beginner or advanced division. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to do:

• Purchase and Build: Buy the components and build the drone according to the specifications in the rule book.

• Advanced Division: Design and build a custom mechanism for the drone to complete the mission.

• Programming: Learn to program an autopilot system for autonomous task performance.

• Online Ground School: Complete a course covering flight basics, safety, national airspace, and more, preparing students for the FAA Part 107 certification.

• Virtual Preliminary Competition: Submit a video of your aircraft performing tasks and deliver a Flight Readiness Review presentation live to judges.

• Autopilot Challenge: Showcase your ability to program the autopilot software and answer questions from judges.

• In-Person Championship: Top-scoring teams will compete at Air Venture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

What are the dates for the UAS4STEM competition?

• Registration Opens: Month Day, 2024.

• Virtual Preliminary Competition: Spring 2025 (late April or early May).

• In-Person Championship: Month, Day 2025, at Air Venture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

For more information, contact us at [email protected].

What are the benefits of competing?

• Technical Skills: Gain expertise in uncrewed air systems.

• Professional Skills: Develop teamwork, communication, public speaking, time management, and troubleshooting skills.

• Scholarships: Winning teams receive scholarship money, creating pathways to education and STEM careers.

• Confidence and Teamwork: Participants report improved confidence and teamwork abilities.

How much does it cost to participate?

• Team Registration: $1,495.00 for the 2024 season.

• Additional Teams: 50% discount for each additional team.

• International Teams: $1,695.00 due to additional costs.

• Included: AMA membership for up to 10 students, team manager, assistant manager, and access to the Part 107-preparatory UAS4STEM virtual ground school.

• Not Included: sUAS equipment, travel, food, lodging for the championship competition.

Where will the competitions be held?

• Championship Competition: Air Venture at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

• Preliminary Competition: Virtual, from the location of your choice.

What if your group has more than 10 students?

Each team can have a maximum of 10 students. Schools or clubs can register multiple teams at a discounted rate to accommodate all interested students.

What ages are allowed to participate? Does the team have to be affiliated with a school?

• Ages: 11-19, with an adult mentor managing the team.

• Team Formation: Teams can be from schools, Civil Air Patrol squadrons, scouting groups, homeschool co-ops, community centers, and more.

This competition sounds GREAT! I would love to contribute a sponsorship.

We are actively seeking sponsors to allow more teams to participate, increase scholarship amounts, and grow the program. UAS4STEM is an educational program of the Academy of Model Aeronautics, a nonprofit dedicated to model aviation. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities and benefits here.