Empowering the Next Generation of Drone Enthusiasts at the Girls in STEM Workshop

On October 30th and 31st, our team from VUAS had the privilege of joining Ballarat Tech School and Federation University in a Girls in STEM workshop, (https://ballarattechschool.vic.edu.au/node/1215). This inspiring event was designed to introduce young women to potential careers in drone technology—a field in which women are vastly underrepresented. Currently, the industry has a staggering 97% to 3% male-to-female ratio, which is even lower than in general aviation. This imbalance makes events like this especially meaningful, as they create opportunities to inspire a more diverse future for the drone industry.

On the first day, we guided participants through scenarios that reflect real-world drone work. Using Mavic Mini drones, the girls completed scaled-down versions of professional tasks, such as inspecting mock wind turbines and solar panels for faults. While the setup was on a smaller scale, the process mirrored the procedures of actual drone operations, including essential paperwork and safety protocols. It was a hands-on experience where they learned not only the technical side of drone operation but also the meticulous planning and documentation that professional work demands. The high level of engagement from the participants was rewarding for our team, showing that there is real interest among young women in pursuing drone technology careers.

Seeing this enthusiasm was a powerful reminder of why our involvement is so critical. Encouraging young women to explore STEM fields can help build a more balanced and inclusive future for the drone industry. At VUAS, we are proud to contribute to this mission by inspiring the next generation of drone operators and helping shift the industry toward greater gender diversity.

On the second day, I had the chance to share my personal journey in the drone field, which has been shaped by my background in marine biology and ecology. My experience spans work with native wildlife, including seals, whales, kangaroos, and koalas, demonstrating a different facet of drone applications beyond infrastructure inspections. This talk offered the girls a broader view of drone technology’s potential, especially in wildlife research and environmental monitoring. The students' questions kept me on my toes, sparking conversations on the future uses of drones in science and conservation—a testament to their curiosity and drive.

After the presentations, we explored the cutting-edge facilities at Ballarat Tech School. Their setup, complete with 3D printers, laser cutters, robotics, and advanced computing systems, was inspiring to see. It was a great reminder of the resources and innovative tools available to today’s students, empowering them to explore, invent, and create. I can’t wait to return next year and see the new technologies they’ll have to offer.

Reflecting on these two days, it was clear that this workshop had a lasting impact, both for us and for the students. The experience was a highlight for our entire VUAS team, and we hope we left a positive mark on the participants, sparking an interest in drone technology and showing them the vast opportunities it offers. Events like this are vital to fostering diversity and creativity in our industry, and we’re honoured to have been part of this journey with the next generation of STEM professionals.