As fireworks boomed in the distance celebrating the independence of America, the tranquility of the Mira Mera drone performance inspired Junior Ellie Chin to bring the peaceful feeling to Poway.  

         Chin and eight other students all found interest in learning how to fly drones, acquiring a drone license, and understanding the uses of drones in the real world. Drone club effectively prepares students for each one of these accomplishments through their frequent usage of drones and the variety of obstacles to complete.

“To create high-quality drones is a marvel, and to have that amount of control in your hands gives you a very powerful feeling,” senior William Hovel said. 

Chin founded the Drone Club in the fall of the first trimester to bring the relaxing atmosphere of drones to Poway. Three of their members are trying to form a competitive team, but there is a struggle to find races close enough to compete in.

Even though the club is relatively small, the shared fascination for drones, relation to making mistakes, and respect when something goes well creates a light and relaxing atmosphere.  The members gather together in Mr. Guillaume room and set up a series of obstacles each member flies their drone through. These challenges prepare them for real life obstacles such as trees, people, buildings, etc and hopefully inspiring them to join the competition team.

“I’m learning how to rely on my team members and organize next steps so that our club can progress and hopefully compete this year.” Chin said. 

Drones are becoming more and more prominent in our society, being used for silent shipping options, advanced photography, and assisting those in combat. Drones are extremely hands-on as they are engineering centered as well as robotic based. 

While they continue to grow their club and improve their skills, students meet after school on Wednesdays to practice their flying and complete different obstacle courses. They also watch examples of professional drone usage. 

“Drone club is more of a hands on club. We actually need skills and techniques in order to qualify for the club,” junior Liat Friedman said. 

Drone club is an opportunity to have a stronger knowledge on drones, expand engineering knowledge, and meet other drone pilots.

 “I know that drones aren’t exactly a typical interest, but we are open to all students regardless of the knowledge of drones,” Chin said.