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More than 200 Detroit youth received a chance to fly drones and learn about aerial technology at Michigan Central’s first Youth Drone Demo Day. Hosted by Michigan Central, nonprofit partner CODE313, and Newlab on September 9, the program offered a hands-on workshop to students ages 7 to 17 that introduced them to the possibilities and career options drones can bring to cities like Detroit.

Students learned about drone photography and mapping, and they were able to fly a drone obstacle course. During the demonstration, students also explored career options associated with drones, such as applications in farming, urban planning, water testing and conservation, telecommunications, electricity, and the entertainment industry.

“CODE313 is about inspiring the next generation of Detroit’s great minds by using drones to get them interested in science and technology,” said CODE313 Founder Bartel Welch, whose organization offers classes for kids and adults alike. “We want the younger generation to understand the unlimited potential and freedom that drones present, and we help them see the opportunities available to them.”