Universities + AMA:
Cultivating the Next Generation of UAS Innovators
The world of aviation is evolving at a breathtaking pace, and with it, the landscape for young innovators. Today’s university students are designing incredible UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) solutions, pushing boundaries we could only dream generations ago. But even the most brilliant ideas sometimes face a critical hurdle: a lack of fundamental, hands-on model aviation experience.
This is where the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) and you, our dedicated members, come in.
In March of 2026, the AMA hosted a webinar, "Universities + AMA: A Stronger Future for UAS Aviation," designed to forge stronger ties between academic drone programs and the deep wellspring of knowledge within our community. This wasn't just a discussion; it was a strategic bridge-building event.
Why This Webinar Matters for AMA Members
For decades, AMA members have been the unheralded pioneers of flight. We've tinkered, designed, flown, and perfected. Now, there’s an unprecedented opportunity to share that invaluable legacy directly with the next generation.
This webinar, featuring AMA President Greg Stone, AMA Clubs Director Ilona Maine, and AMA Education Director Kyle Jaracz, highlights how your local club and individual expertise can be the crucial differentiator for collegiate UAS programs.
- Become a Mentor: Learn how universities, especially those in the FAA Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI) program, are actively seeking Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) like you to guide students through competitions, design projects, and flight training. Your practical insights can turn a struggling student project into a standout success.
- Grow Our Community: Discover how the University Model Aviation Student Club (UMASC) program is creating a pipeline for new, passionate aviators. By supporting these clubs, you're not just helping students; you're nurturing the future of model aviation itself.
- Strengthen Local Ties: Position your AMA club as a valuable educational resource in your community, forming meaningful partnerships with local universities that benefit everyone involved.
- Reinforce Safety: Connect collegiate programs with the AMA's long-standing commitment to safety, aligning with initiatives like FAA Drone Safety Day and ensuring responsible innovation.
As AMA President Greg Stone, who has firsthand experience judging collegiate competitions, shared: "The difference between missed opportunities and standout successes often came down to whether students had leveraged the subject matter expertise of AMA members." This is a chance for our members to directly influence those outcomes.
A Unique Opportunity for Universities and Educators
For college administrators, faculty, and students involved in UAS programs, this webinar recording offers direct access to the AMA's comprehensive resources:
- Expert Connections: Pathways to connect with experienced model aviators who can serve as mentors, advisors, and even judges for your programs and competitions.
- Program Support: Insights into UMASC formation, scholarship opportunities, insurance benefits, and government advocacy tools available through the AMA.
- Enhanced Learning: Strategies to integrate real-world model aviation fundamentals into your curriculum, giving students a practical edge.
Ilona Maine details how the AMA's resources can build meaningful partnerships, while Kyle Jaracz discusses how the AMA Education team facilitates these vital connections.
Join the Conversation. Build the Bridge.
This conversation is a powerful step towards a stronger future for UAS aviation, built on a foundation of collaboration and shared expertise. Whether you're an AMA leader eager to contribute, an experienced member looking to give back, or a university educator seeking to elevate your program, this webinar is for you.
Don't miss this opportunity to help shape stronger outcomes for student innovators.
Watch the recording now!
