As part of its weeklong camp devoted to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois (GSSI) recently held an unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) program for almost 60 Girl Scouts.
According to a local report from the Belleville News-Democrat, the day-camp program was sponsored by energy company Phillips 66 and hosted by Philadelphia-based LocoRobo Innovations Inc., a robotics company offering educational programs for youth.
The report says the Girl Scouts learned how UAS are made and operated and how they’re used in different applications. Notably, each of the girls got the chance to fly her own drone, as well.
Phillips 66, which is based out of Houston, says it is a strong supporter of K-12 STEM education. For the Girl Scouts’ drone program, the company awarded a $2,500 grant.
Emily Stanley, program manager for GSSI’s STEM initiative, told the Belleville News-Democrat that GSSI is “incredibly grateful” for the grant and that “providing girls with interesting, challenging and fun activities to keep developing their interest in [STEM] fields can help them build bright futures.”
