FAQ

Is this a drone racing club? 

No, Aerial Robotics is an engineering-based team that builds drones and payloads to complete certain tasks for competition. We do not race. 

Do I need experience to join the team?

Not at all. As long as you have an interest for drones and other aerial robotics, you are welcome to apply! New members will be taught the basics, so skillset is not the greatest factor in determining team members. A background in engineering, teamwork, or leadership is encouraged, but not necessary. 

When does Aerial Robotics meet? 

Mondays and Wednesdays after school in A115 at the Main building for around an hour or two (depending on the workload for every meeting). 

I have a sport. Can I still join? 

Our team is successful when all members attend all practices - just like a sport. However, we realize people have multiple interests and high school is a time to explore. Being in a fall, winter, or spring sport will not disqualify someone from joining the aerial robotics team. Students playing one sport are more likely to receive an invitation. Email Mr. Tegtmeyer at anthony_tegtmeyer@ipsd.org and write all your extracurriculars in our application for more information. 

Is there a fee? 

Yes, there's a $200 fee to join. (Additional fees are necessary when you are traveling for competitions with us) 

Do I have to come to every meeting? 

Yes. Attendance and participation are key for a successful team. Each student gets 2 excused absences. Unexcused absences will not be tolerated. If there are other activities that coincide, contact Mr. Tegtmeyer at anthony_tegtmeyer@ipsd.org for any arrangements. 

Can I do both VEX Robotics and Aerial Robotics? 

No, both clubs have an intensive workload that requires proper attendance. Students may not participate in both clubs at once; students must choose one. 

What is the competition? 

Aerial Robotics partakes in the official ARISE competition every spring, There are four sections: piloted flight, autonomous flight, an engineering presentation, and design documentation. More information can be found on the ARISE competition page and the ARISE website.

We also participate in the UAS4STEM competition competition in Airventure Oshkosh at the end of July. This competition consists of two divisions, beginner and advanced. The beginner involves autonomously searching for targets. Advanced requires teams to autonomously deliver a payload in addition to searching for targets. 

Does Aerial Robotics use pre-made parts/components?

Aerial Robotics uses real-world drone technology. We custom design, build, test and fly all of our own drones. We use a drone kit to create the drone frame, and then modify parts (e.g. motors, propellers, etc.) to fit our needs.

Does Aerial Robotics involve coding?

Coding is not necessary for programming the drone itself, however we sometimes incorporate technology such as a Raspberry Pi to help identify and guide the drone to targets.