DreamFlight Charities is excited to announce the Spring 2026 meeting schedule for the OpenSkies Flight Club, a student-focused aviation program designed to introduce young people to the many pathways within the aviation and aerospace industry. This spring, OpenSkies will place a special emphasis on Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known ad drones, and their growing role across public safety, defense, engineering, and agriculture.
Drones are no longer a niche technology – they are transforming how we protect communities, build infrastructure, and support essential industries. Through OpenSkies, students will hear directly from professionals who are using drone technology in meaningful, real-world ways, while gaining exposure to potential career paths and the skills needed to pursue them.
Below is a look at what students can expect during the Spring 2026 OpenSkies Flight Club meetings!
January | Public Safety & Drone Technology
The Spring semester kicks off with Kentucky State Police’s powerful introduction to drones in relation to public safety. Representatives will share how they utilize drones for accident reconstruction, crime scene diagramming, and situational awareness.
Students will learn how drones allow investigators to safely and efficiently document complex scenes, create accurate 3D models, and preserve critical evidence. This session will also highlight how aviation technology supports law enforcement while reducing risk to officers and first responders. For students interested in criminal justice, emergency services, or aviation technology, this meeting will showcase how multiple disciplines intersect through UAS operations!
February | Military Aviation & Remote Ops
In February, OpenSkies will welcome Curt Wilson of General Atomics, who will share his experiences as an MQ-1 Predator drone operator. This session will provide a unique look into military aviation, remote piloting, and the responsibilities that come with operating uncrewed aircraft in high-stakes environments.
Students will gain insight into training pathways, decision-making under pressure, and how drone operations fit into modern defense and national security. Beyond the technical aspects, Curt will discuss teamwork, discipline, and leadership – soft skills that are critical in aviation careers and transferable to many areas of everyday life.
March | Engineering & Environmental Safety
March’s meeting will explore how drones are being used to engineer safer roadways and protect wildlife. Representatives from Lochner, a national engineering firm, will discuss their use of drones in designing natural bridges and wildlife crossings aimed at reducing vehicle-animal collisions.
Students will see how aerial data collection, mapping, and analysis play a role in infrastructure planning and environmental stewardship. This session highlights the creative and problem-solving side of aviation technology and introduces careers in civil engineering, environmental planning, and geospatial analysis.
April | Agriculture & Drone Innovation
We’re admittedly putting the final touches on this meeting, but plans are underway to focus on agricultural spraying and precision farming using drones. This session will explore how UAS technology helps farmers increase efficiency, reduce waste, and make data-driven decisions to improve crop health.
Students will learn how aviation supports one of Kentucky’s most important industries and how drone pilots, technicians, and data analysts are shaping the future of agriculture.
The OpenSkies Flight Club is about more than learning how drones fly – it’s about helping students see what’s possible. Each meeting connects aviation concepts to careers while reinforcing skills like critical thinking, communication, responsibility, and teamwork.
Whether a student dreams of flying, engineering, serving in public safety, or working with cutting-edge technology, OpenSkies provides a runway for exploration and inspiration.
Interested in getting involved? Visit our dedicated club page for updates, meeting details, and opportunities to support aviation education in Frankfort and surrounding communities. Together, we’re helping the next generation discover how aviation – and drones- can change lives!