Non-Profit Develops 'Drone Camp in a Box' To Inspire Kids To Pursue STEAM Careers

An organization that uses drones to get kids interested in STEAM careers says it won't let a global pandemic stop them from accomplishing their goals.

Global Air Drone Academy, a non-profit drone training, education and consultation company based in Baltimore, uses drones as a tool to teach kids about science, technology, engineering, art and math.

While drones are downright cool, it can be expensive to buy one and learn how to fly it well. That's why GADA co-founders Austin Brown and Eno Umoh are trying to make drones accessible to everyone.

"We want to teach kids about this technology and ultimately teach them how to become entrepreneurs in this field," Umoh told CBS Baltimore's Sean Streicher.

That hasn't been easy with so many students in lock down to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

"Our solution to the new normal is to take the camp and bring it to the kids," Brown said.

They call it Drone Camp in a Box. Each kit includes a drone, cones, safety rules and access to online classes.

"A lot of these students, they have been home for months now. Schools are canceled, summer camps are canceled, so they're looking for activities to do," Umoh said.

Students like Dagim Seid have been taking classes online and is set to begin their revamped summer camp.

"At first I was like, this is kinda hard to fly, and then I got used to it," he said.

Their goal is to provide 500 kids with a box, free of charge. To do this, they need to raise $62,500.

"We're about a quarter of the way there, but we need help in order to reach 500 kids and give them access to a fun and engaging summer activity," Brown said.

You can either buy a Drone Camp in a Box kit for your kids or donate one. They range from $125 (suggested for kids ages 8-11) to $295 (suggested for kids 12-15 years old) and you get to keep the drone. And if you donate one, you also get access to the online classes.