How a High School Drone Soccer Team Is Shaping the Next Generation of Aerospace Engineers

From Classroom to Championship

Asheboro High School in North Carolina isn’t just teaching students about aerospace engineering—it’s letting them build, program, and fly their way to victory. The school’s US Drone Soccer team, led by educator Wendy Graham and backed by CTE Director Anthony Woodyard, has become a proving ground for future innovators. And they’re winning big: the team recently clinched First and Second Place at the Regional Championship, securing their spot at Nationals.

“This isn’t just about flying drones—it’s about problem-solving, teamwork, and real-world engineering,” says Graham.

Hands-On Learning Takes Flight

Students like 9th graders Marvin Reyes and Rohan Taya aren’t just playing with remote-controlled toys. They’re dissecting drone components, mastering Betaflight software, and fine-tuning flight controls to optimize performance. The program bridges the gap between theory and practice, giving students tangible skills that translate directly to aerospace careers.

For junior Jaycoll Reyes, the benefits extend beyond technical know-how. “I’ve grown in leadership, communication, and even aerospace terminology,” he says. “It’s preparing me for what’s next.”

Sparking STEM Interest Beyond the Team

The team isn’t keeping their knowledge to themselves. They’ve become ambassadors for STEM and aviation, presenting at elementary schools, school board meetings, and even to state officials. Their outreach is part of a broader mission to inspire younger students and demonstrate the real-world applications of aerospace education.

Woodyard and Graham see the program as a critical pipeline for the industry. “We’re not just building drones,” Woodyard explains. “We’re building futures.” With Nationals on the horizon, Asheboro’s students are proving that high school robotics can be a launchpad for something much bigger.