Springfield Students Soar to Victory at National Drone Championship

Aerial Drone Competition

Springfield, Vermont, is buzzing with excitement after the impressive triumph of our local students at the prestigious Dragonfly Regional Drone Championship in West Virginia. On their return, the young champions received a hero’s welcome, complete with a police escort parade, celebrating their remarkable accomplishment.

Carter Fox, a ninth-grader and a member of River Valley Technical Center’s Robotics and Aerial Drone Club (RADs), shared his astonishment: “I was actually half asleep when we figured out we were getting the parade. We didn’t know anything until it actually happened.”
The RADs team, known for their excellent collaboration and coordination, competed fiercely and emerged victorious in the Teamwork Challenge. Their mission? Navigate their drones through a challenging course, efficiently maneuvering balls to their designated locations in record time.

Teammate Eli Spear highlighted the club’s dynamic appeal, “I think the part that I like best about RADs is that you get to do so much stuff.” Spear emphasized that clear communication and teamwork were the key to their success, explaining, “It’s the coordination that we all have. We all know what we are doing and how to listen.”

Instructor Christopher Gray, who leads the RADs club, pointed out the broader educational implications of their win: “There is a direct link between what they are learning with the drone and what they could do as a future drone pilot or even in aviation.” Gray proudly noted that this marks the third consecutive year the club has reached the regional competition level, a testament to their hard work and dedication.
One team member, Tallman, underscored the real-world benefits of participating in drone competitions: “I want to do more programming in the future, so it is a really nice and fun way to have more experience.”
For these students, the celebration extended beyond trophies and medals. Reflecting on the exhilarating moment of victory, Fox described the unforgettable experience of being hoisted into the air by his ecstatic teammates: “All of a sudden, I just felt myself levitating, and it was all my teammates picking me up and they just carried me.”
Though their drones will remain grounded until October, the students at River Valley Technical Center have already set their sights on their next adventure, the eagerly anticipated end-of-year Battle Bot Competition.
Congratulations to Springfield’s young innovators, whose success in drone technology underscores the vibrant spirit of innovation and collaboration in our community. As they continue to achieve remarkable milestones, they inspire us all to look to the skies, and beyond.

Recent Posts

Things to do in Springfield VT

Things to do in Springfield VT

Things to Do in Springfield VT | Visitor FAQs Whether you’re here for a weekend escape, a seasonal festival, or a peaceful retreat, Springfield offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure, local flavor, and small-town charm. What are the best things to do in Springfield, Vermont? Springfield is full of fun, beauty, and surprises. Highlights include: The Simpsons statues and photo op at the Chamber of Commerce Toonerville Trail – a scenic riverside bike and walking

Read More »
Vermont Weekend Getaway

Move to Springfield VT

Move to Springfield VT | Resident FAQs Considering a move to Springfield, Vermont, or already lucky enough to live here? Here are answers to the most common questions about what life is like in our vibrant, connected community. What’s the cost of living in Springfield VT compared to other parts of Vermont and New England? Springfield offers one of the most affordable lifestyles in Southern Vermont. Housing prices are among the lowest in Windsor County, and

Read More »
Starting a Business in Springfield VT

Starting a Business in Springfield VT

FAQs About Starting a Business in Springfield VT Whether you’re a startup founder, expanding enterprise, or remote-enabled company, Springfield, Vermont offers an exceptional environment to grow your business. Here’s what you need to know. What are the benefits of starting or relocating a business in Springfield, Vermont? Springfield is the ideal mix of affordability, access, and support. As part of Vermont’s “Precision Valley,” Springfield is emerging as a modern hub for innovation, with: Affordable commercial real

Read More »
Springfield VT restaurants

Springfield VT Restaurants

Springfield VT Restaurants Looking for small-town charm, big flavor, and a community vibe, you can’t bottle up? Welcome to Downtown Springfield, Vermont, where the food and drink scene is as vibrant and inviting as the people who call this place home. Springfield may be known for its innovation and rich history, but ask any local and they’ll tell you, our downtown is quickly becoming a destination for foodies and casual diners alike. Whether you’re starting your

Read More »
Vermont Vacations Cross County Skiing

Top 10 Outdoor Adventures Near Springfield Vermont

Discover Your Adventure: Springfield’s Outdoor Paradise Imagine stepping outside your door into a world of endless outdoor possibilities. Here in Springfield, Vermont, that’s not just a dream—it’s everyday life. Our cherished corner of the Green Mountain State offers a perfect blend of accessible adventure and natural beauty, inviting both longtime residents and visitors to create lasting memories in the great outdoors. Winter Fun: Excellent Skiing Just Minutes Away The joy of Vermont winters comes alive just

Read More »
Snowshoeing Near Springfield VT

Snowshoeing Near Springfield VT

3 Must-Try Snowshoeing Trails Near Springfield VT Winter in Vermont is a special kind of magic. While many think of skiing or snowboarding, there’s another incredibly rewarding way to experience our snowy landscapes: snowshoeing. It’s accessible, serene, and allows you to explore the hushed beauty of the winter woods at your own pace. And if you’re staying in or near Springfield, VT, you’re perfectly positioned to hit some of Southern Vermont’s best winter trails, all within

Read More »