AMA Education Blog

Middle and high school students can now register for the 2026 UAS4STEM drone competition. Teams will design, build, and fly drones while developing STEM skills in engineering, coding, and teamwork. Beginner and Advanced divisions are available, and teams can compete virtually from anywhere.

Prizes include up to $2,500, Skydio drones, trophies, and certificates.

Financial assistance is available for new teams.
Apply by October 13, 2025.

Key Dates:
Registration closes: January 12, 2026
Virtual competition: April 14–29, 2026
Championship: July 20–22, 2026 at AirVenture

Fold to Flight is a free project introducing students to aviation through paper airplanes and other models, enhancing skills and knowledge.

The Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) has helped graduating seniors achieve their dreams since 1970, with individual scholarships starting at $500 each year. This year, $49,500 was awarded to seven students!

Education Director Kyle Jaracz, Education Development Coordinator Gwen Mathis, and Educational Project Manager Emily Rice traveled to the 2025 Women in Aviation International (WAI) Conference in Denver, Colorado! They spent three amazing days networking and sharing AMA Educational Resources with aviation professionals, educators, and young aviation enthusiasts.

The UAS4STEM season is underway, inviting teams to build drones and compete. New teams welcomed for 2024-2025 competition.

Are you interested in getting involved in UAS4STEM, but need some financial assistance to get started? We have wonderful news: the UAS4STEM Funding Application is open through 11:59 PM EST on November 20th! Applying for funding for UAS4STEM is as easy as 1, 2, 3!

AMA offers scholarships supporting careers in aviation, science, and technology, with over $1.3M awarded. Applications due Feb 3rd!

Registration for the 2024-2025 UAS4STEM Competition is now open!