‘Droneup Racing’ creates buzz about robotics, aerial vehicles, engineering

40 high school and university students piloted small drones through an obstacle course at the Chinese Cultural Centre.

A drone-flying competition called DroneUp Racing tested young competitors’ skills while also encouraging interest in unmanned aerial vehicles.

About 40 high school and university students remote-controlled small drones through an obstacle course in the Calgary Chinese cultural centre on Saturday.

Competitors gained practical experience with drone-piloting, and learned more about robotics.

The event was hosted by AdvanceUAV, a Calgary-based drone manufacturer.

“In competitions like this, we are bringing out our youth. Our youth is finally getting an opportunity both boys and girls to come into STEM and drive forward innovation,” said Peter Jarmics the CEO, AdvanceUAV tech inc.

STEM often stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Organizers hope drone-up racing will return every year during the Calgary Stampede.

Drone technology has been integrated into the Calgary Police Service safety planning for the Calgary Stampede.

As well, the City of Calgary is using drones as part of traffic control, to improve mobility in the city.

• City uses high-tech solutions to address traffic safety

Drones are also featured nightly during the Grandstand show, during the Calgary Stampede.