In early January, NVCC students Jonathan Escobar, Albert Lagerman, Anthony Lane, and James Petkin were awarded the NASA Community College Quadcopter challenge grant.

The purpose of the Community College Quadcopter Challenge grant is to "inspire the pursuit of careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), especially within groups who have traditionally been underrepresented within the STEM disciplines." 

This program challenge requires students to perform a variety of maneuvers using the drone. The quadcopter will need to fly though obstacles, pick up and drop off samples to score points. These maneuvers can be accomplished using manual flight controls. For additional points, students can perform the same tasks using autonomous control by writing computer code.

Jonathan Escobar says, "I had a high interest in participating in the Quadcopter challenge for the opportunity to be involved in a very special and unique project.  I also was excited to be hands-on and learn, not just about the techniques and tools to complete the project efficiently and effectively, but to also have the experience with a team of like-minded and motivated peers."

Rob Sheftel, the ACE Director and advisor to the program says, "We are excited to showcase the talent of our Community College students."

The Community College Quadcopter Challenge is funded through the NASA CT Space Grant Consortium. Learn more about the grant at tinyurl.com/nasancas