Youth Drone Program Series: Understanding Airspace for Drone Pilots (Part 2 of 6)

By: Meghan Thoreau, OSU Extension Educator, Community Development & STEM, Pickaway County

Airspace 101 – Rules of the Sky. Graphic by the Federal Aviation Administration.

This week in our Core Curriculum-based Youth Drone Program Series, we’re diving into Airspace 101—a crucial topic for every young drone pilot. Airspace is the sky we all share, and in the U.S., the FAA makes sure aircraft—from jumbo jets to tiny drones—move safely within it. Click here to access the Ohioline Fact Sheet: Understanding Airspace for Drone Pilots.

Why Airspace Matters for Drone Pilots

Flying a drone isn’t just about takeoff and landing. It’s about knowing where you’re allowed to fly, when you need FAA permission, and how to avoid airspace that could put you—or others—at risk. Accidentally flying into controlled airspace near an airport without authorization can lead to dangerous situations and serious penalties.

Controlled vs. Uncontrolled Airspace

Think of controlled airspace like a busy highway and uncontrolled airspace like a quiet back road.

  • Controlled Airspace (Classes B, C, D, and parts of E):
    Found around airports and cities. Drone pilots must get FAA authorization—often through the LAANC app—to fly here.
  • Uncontrolled Airspace (Class G):
    Open, low-traffic skies are typically found in rural areas. Great for drone flying and rarely requires special permission—follow the Part 107 rules and stay under 400 feet.

Tools That Keep Pilots Safe

Youth pilots learn to use apps like B4UFLY to check airspace in real time, just like professional pilots. Mapping safe routes, scanning for temporary flight restrictions (TFRs), and checking nearby airports all become part of smart pre-flight habits.

Looking Ahead: Sectional Charts

This fact sheet also introduces sectional charts—special aviation maps that display airspace boundaries, airports, elevations, and other relevant information. They’re the next step in becoming a confident and responsible drone operator. The upcoming Part 3 in this series will take us deeper into how to read and use these charts.

Sectional chart excerpt of Watertown Regional Airport (ATY), Class E Airspace, (ATY). Map by vfrmap.com (vfrmap.com, n.d.).

Bottom line: Understanding airspace is key to safe flight. Whether we’re filming aerial videos, racing drones, or practicing maneuvers at the Westfall Drone Club, knowing the “rules of the sky” makes every pilot better—and keeps our skies safer for everyone.

Stay tuned for Part 3 Reading Sectional Charts!

Westfall Drone Program Awarded $5,000 Grant from Pickaay County Community Foundation

By: Meghan Thoreau, OSU Extension Educator, Community Development & STEM, Pickaway County

Strengthening Youth Pathways in Aviation, STEM, and UAS Careers

OSU Extension, Pickaway County is proud to announce that the Westfall Drone Program has been awarded a $5,000 grant from the Pickaway County Community Foundation (PCCF). This philanthropic investment will significantly strengthen our ability to deliver high-quality, hands-on aviation and drone education for Westfall High School students.

Expanding Opportunities in STEM and Aviation

This funding directly supports the expansion of the Westfall Drone Club and its integration with the district’s new in-school FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification course. Together, these programs create a unified pathway that allows students to:

  • Engage in hands-on drone flight, simulation, and mission planning
  • Learn the aviation principles required for FAA Remote Pilot Certification
  • Explore workforce applications in precision agriculture, sustainability, surveying, public safety, and data science
  • Strengthen technical, analytical, and 21st-century skillsets needed in emerging STEM careers

With PCCF’s support, students will have access to:

  • Commercial-grade drones
  • FAA-aligned curriculum
  • Flight simulation software
  • Structured exam preparation
  • A dedicated Remote Piloting Supervisor to oversee after-school operations and flight safety

A Community-Driven Effort

The Westfall Drone Program is made possible through strong partnerships with:

  • Pickaway County Community Foundation
  • Westfall Local School District
  • Pickaway Educational Service Center
  • Pickaway-Ross Career & Technical Center
  • OSU Extension, Pickaway County
  • Unmanned Safety Institute (USI)

Each partner plays a critical role in creating opportunities for rural youth to earn industry-recognized credentials and explore high-demand career pathways right here in Pickaway County.

Impacting the Next Generation

The program aims to serve up to 20 high school students each year, offering more than 250 hours of instruction, drone practice, and supervised flight activities. With the support of the PCCF grant, students will be better prepared to sit for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Exam—a nationally recognized credential that opens doors to aviation, unmanned systems, agricultural technology, and rapidly growing drone-related industries.

By investing in this program, PCCF is helping to:

  • Reduce economic barriers to certification
  • Expand rural access to STEM programming
  • Strengthen local workforce pipelines
  • Inspire the next generation of aviation and technology professionals

A Bright Flight Path Ahead

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Pickaway County Community Foundation for recognizing the importance of drone education and supporting the growth of innovative youth STEM programming in our county. Together, we are expanding opportunities, elevating student potential, and preparing young people for meaningful futures in technology and aviation.

To learn more about the program, visit:
u.osu.edu/westfalldroneclub

Take Flight with Drones: Your Guide to the FAA Part 107 Certificate

By: Meghan Thoreau, OSU Extension Educator, Community Development & STEM, Pickaway County

 

Have you ever looked up at a drone flying overhead and thought, “I want to do that!”?

The Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate allows individuals to operate small, unmanned aircraft systems, commonly known as drones. Illustration generated on Meta AI platform.

The Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate allows individuals to operate small, unmanned aircraft systems, commonly known as drones. Illustration generated on the Meta AI platform.

Drones are more than just cool gadgets—they’re powerful tools used in farming, construction, public safety, film, journalism, and even environmental science. From capturing stunning aerial shots to helping first responders during emergencies, drones are shaping the future of work. And the best part? You don’t have to wait until college to start your journey.

Why the FAA Part 107 Certificate Matters

If you want to fly drones for work or business in the U.S., you need the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. It’s like your official driver’s license for the skies! Earning this certificate shows you understand the rules of safe flight and opens doors to awesome opportunities—whether you’re still in high school, heading to college, or already thinking about your future career.

What’s Inside the New Fact Sheet

Our new fact sheet, Introduction to the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, walks you through everything you need to know:

  • Who can take the test (hint: you can start studying before age 16!)
  • What the exam covers—airspace, weather, safety, and more
  • How to sign up for the exam and what the test day looks like
  • Why preparing early pays off for future drone pilots

It’s the first in a five-part youth drone education series designed to help students like YOU turn curiosity into career-ready skills.

What’s Next?

The upcoming fact sheets will dive deeper into:

  1. Airspace and how to read aviation maps
  2. Weather and how it impacts drone flight
  3. Safety rules every pilot needs to know
  4. The exciting careers waiting for certified drone pilots

The Sky is Calling

Learning to fly drones isn’t just fun—it’s a stepping stone to STEM careers that are growing fast right here in Ohio and across the world. Whether you dream of designing video games, saving lives with technology, or helping farmers grow food more efficiently, drones can get you there.

Read the full fact sheet here: Introduction to the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

So what are you waiting for? Your drone journey starts now—and the sky is NOT the limit.

Receiving the Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is a first step that can lead to exciting careers in aviation, technology, and STEM fields. Illustration generated on Meta AI platform.

Receiving the Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is a first step that can lead to exciting careers in aviation, technology, and STEM fields. Illustration generated on the Meta AI platform.

Exploring Careers in the Air Travel Industry — Opportunities at John Glenn and Rickenbacker Airports

Meghan Thoreau, OSU Extension Educator

Career Exploration: Air Travel Industry, https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/cdfs-4120

Meghan Thoreau, Extension Educator with Ohio State University Extension in Pickaway County, has released a new fact sheet titled Career Exploration: Air Travel Industry, providing a comprehensive overview of career opportunities in aviation, with a spotlight on Columbus’s two key aviation hubs—John Glenn International Airport (CMH) and Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK).

This timely resource is especially valuable for high school students and young professionals looking to explore a dynamic, growing industry filled with diverse career paths. From customer service and logistics to engineering and wildlife management, the air travel sector offers more than just jobs—it offers purpose, innovation, and long-term security.

Key Takeaways:

John Glenn International Airport (CMH):

  • Served a record-breaking 9 million passengers in 2024, with over 53 nonstop destinations.
  • Major infrastructure developments, like the CMH Next project, will expand terminal facilities and workforce opportunities.
  • Community engagement remains strong through events like the Thunderbirds Air Show and the Runway 5K fundraiser.

Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK):

  • Known for its cargo operations, LCK serves over 310,000 passengers annually and supports global trade and logistics.
  • A $12 million runway rehab project and the new COTA Mobility Center will enhance access and community resources for nearly 38,000 area workers.
  • Recent additions include a mural honoring the Tuskegee Airmen, reinforcing the airport’s community and historical commitment.

Figure 1. The air travel industry offers many career opportunities. Photo collage by Meghan Thoreau, Ohio State University Extension.

Why Consider a Career in Aviation?

The aviation industry offers:

  • Diverse roles for all education levels
  • Competitive pay and travel perks
  • A collaborative, fast-paced environment
  • Global job availability and security
  • Career advancement potential in a technologically evolving industry

Whether your passion lies in flight operations, technology, customer service, or sustainability, there’s likely a role for you in this expansive sector. The fact sheet also outlines steps to prepare for airport careers, including job search tips, resume building, interview prep, and networking strategies.

As CMH and LCK continue to grow, so do their career opportunities, offering the chance to contribute to an industry that connects people, powers economies, and shapes the future of travel.

Week 2-4: ESC Credit Recovery and Enrichment Summer Camp Activities

Meghan Thoreau, OSU Extension Educator

Click here or on the image above to watch a short highlight video capturing students’ enrichment activities during their second through forth weeks of summer camp, produced by Meghan Thoreau.

Credit Recovery:

  • Math: Review of algebraic concepts, problem-solving sessions, and assessment preparation.
  • English: Reading comprehension exercises, writing, and literature analysis.
  • Science: Review of biology and chemistry fundamentals.

Week 2 Enrichment Activities:

  • Electric Design Challenge: building electromagnets and experiment with simple circuits and light bulb designs inspired by Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Edison.

  • Daughter’s and Son’s of the American Revolution: Learning American history and applying it to modern day.

  • LED Display Circuit Boards: understanding how to read electric schematics, build simple circuits using resistors, and construct the wires the right order to program an LED display cube.

  • Jam Making: having fun in the kitchen, gaining some culinary skills by creating delicious homemade jam to impress your friends and family.

Week 3 Enrichment Activities:

  • Mind Trap Design Challenge: student built their own “old school” labyrinth marble maze game. Our version consisted of a maze in the shape of a brain as we learned about mind traps and cognitive distortions and how to overcome them by applying on a different mindset. Students also learned the inner workings and mechanisms of the game itself – how to take the game from gravity fed to incorporating the use of simple cams, fulcrums, pivots and knobs to play the game.

  • Texas Instruments and Coding Challenges: students learned to program a rover using a Texas Instrument calculator through mazes and even write a parallel parking program. Students also explored how to program in sensors to create a working mood ring and learned the science of sound to create a musical note program.

Week 4 Enrichment Activities:

  • Electrical Design Challenge: student built wind powered cars, LED light circuits, and homemade light builds inspired by Benjamin Franklin designs.

  • 3D Modeling & Printing Challenge: student built wind powered cars, LED light circuits, and homemade light builds inspired by Benjamin Franklin designs.

  • Paper Speaking Electromagnet Build: students learn more about the science of sound, but understanding how loudspeakers or microphones are used to produce sound waves via electrical devices such as music systems or telephones or to convert sound waves into electrical signals. In the case of microphones, sound brings about voltage changes, thus allowing sound waves to be converted into electromagnetic waves.

This opportunity was brought to our community by the Pickaway County Educational Service Center, sponsored by the 21st Century Partner Program, which offers a unique blend of academic support, enriching experiences, and a credentialing opportunity to help students thrive. The camp experience is designed for grades 8th -12th graders enrolled in any Pickaway County Local School District.

NACDEP 2024: Unleashing Potential, Designing & Launching High School Exploration Careers Camps

Meghan Thoreau, OSU Extension Educator

The Healthcare Industry Camp Program was awarded both the 2024 Regional and National Award Winner for Innovation and Creativity and presented on in the National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals (NACDEP) at the 2024 Conference held June 17 – June 21, 2024, in Houston, Texas. The conference presentation is accessible below.

Presentation link: www.go.osu.edu/careercamp

NACDEP is an organization dedicated to improving the visibility, coordination, professional status, and resource base of community and economic development Extension programs and professionals.

The national conference presentation highlights a two-day high school summer camp that explored career options in health science. This opportunity was sponsored by Pickaway WORKS in partnership with OSU Extension and Ohio Health Berger. Student- participants experienced professional networking opportunities, shadowed multiple healthcare professionals, and learned first-hand about the in-demand careers in this growing sector. Two healthcare certifications, STOP the Bleed and CPR, were available for students to obtain, as well as, elevated participates to be fast-tracked towards 16+ healthcare internship opportunities and college tuition benefits available after high school graduation.

Week 1: ESC Credit Recovery and Enrichment Summer Camp Activities

Meghan Thoreau, OSU Extension Educator

Click here or on the image above to watch a short highlight video capturing students’ enrichment activities during their first week of summer camp, produced by Meghan Thoreau.

Credit Recovery:

  • Math: Review of algebraic concepts, problem-solving sessions, and assessment preparation.
  • English: Reading comprehension exercises, writing, and literature analysis.
  • Science: Review of biology and chemistry fundamentals.

Enrichment Activities:

  • Pinball Design Challenge: Building a pinball game, designing prototypes, and coding exercises.
  • Sewing Basics: Painting, drawing, and crafting sessions.
  • Tai Chi: Team-building exercises, sports, and scavenger hunts.
  • Mindfulness: Inspirational talks from industry professionals and mentors.
  • Culinary Skills: basic cooking skills, snack and meal preparation.

Goals:

  • Support students in recovering credits and getting back on track.
  • Provide engaging activities to foster learning and exploration.
  • Encourage teamwork, creativity, and critical thinking.

Pinball Science with Rachel Speakman from Pickaway Pathways to Success – the focus of Week 1 was to have students work individually and support each other in creating their take-home versions of a working pinball machine.

This session focused on collaborating in teams to solve design issues seen in our larger “class” pinball machine. Students used their newly learned skills to work through their prototype pinballs to test and troubleshoot possible solutions.

By the end of the week, students had finished their builds, incorporating their newly gained knowledge of basic circuitry and mechanical principles. They added mechanisms from recycled objects and wired buzzers and lights into the design of their pinball machines.

instructor working through a solution with a student

 

Chemical Reactions with Judy Walley from Teays Valley High School – chemistry is a part of everyday life. Week 1 we focused on improving our students’ understanding of the importance of chemical reactions through a hands-on lab.

chemical reactions

Students learned the five signs of a chemical change firsthand:

  1. Color Change
  2. Production of an odor
  3. Change of Temperature
  4. Evolution of a gas (formation of bubbles)
  5. Precipitate (formation of a solid)

chemistry lab

Tai Chi, Mindfulness, and Sewing Basics with Jessica Lowe assisted by Meghan Thoreau from OSU Extension – Tai Chi and Mindfulness are important practices, especially for K-12 students. Many benefits come from incorporating these practices into our daily lives, such as stress and anxiety reduction, improved focus and concentration, greater self-awareness and emotional regulation, improved balance and flexibility, and reduction in chronic pain, insomnia, and depression.

tai chi outside

There are many styles and forms of Tai Chi to learn. Jessica shared the Sun Style developed by Paul Lam. Tai Chi and Mindfulness focus on our overall well-being working both the mind and body. They can also empower students to better navigate personal challenges while maintaining a positive attitude. If students expressed an interest in this session, consider finding classes, clubs, or workshops that can provide resources for students to continue practicing outside of camp. 

students learning to sew

Jessica also led students through a sewing project that taught them basic stitching patterns, like back stitching, threading a needle, sewing buttons, and a chance to use a sewing machine. This was the first time for many students to use and practice these life skills.

instructor teaching student how to use a sewing machine

Stay tuned for more programming highlights from June’s ESC Summer Camp. This opportunity was brought to our community by the Pickaway County Educational Service Center, sponsored by the 21st Century Partner Program, which offers a unique blend of academic support, enriching experiences, and a credentialing opportunity to help students thrive. The camp experience is designed for grades 8th -12th graders enrolled in any Pickaway County Local School District.

2nd Annual Healthcare Career Exploration Camp

Meghan Thoreau, OSU Extension Educator

This June we’re running the 2nd Annual Healthcare Career Exploration Camp that allows high school students to explore career options in health sciences. This opportunity is sponsored by Pickaway WORKS in partnership with OSU Extension and Ohio Health Berger. Student participants will meet and shadow multiple healthcare professionals and learn first-hand about the in-demand careers in this growing sector. Two healthcare certifications, STOP the Bleed and CPR, will be available for students to obtain, as well as, become fast-tracked towards 16+ healthcare internship opportunities and college tuition benefits available after high school graduation.

Time

  • Day 1: June 10th, 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., (optional CPR Certification, 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.)
  • Day 2: June 11th, 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Camp LocationOhio Health Berger Hospital, 600 N Pickaway St, Circleville, OH 43113, Berger Classrooms in the basement of the Medical Office Building. Participants should enter the main doors, turn left, and walk past the cafe and gift shop. Take either the stairs or the elevator to the lower level where the healthcare classrooms are located. (Optional CRP Certification at the Circleville Fire Dept 586 North Court Street, Circleville OH 43113.)

Day 1 

  • OhioHealth/Pickaway WORKS Introductions
  • CliftonStrengths Assessment Discussion
  • Critical Role Career Discovery Stations
  • Experts/Leaders Panel Discussion
  • Tour of Hospital
  • Lunch
  • Option: CPR American Red Cross Certification
  • DAY 1 Feedback Survey: Health Science Careers Camp

Day 2

DETAILED AGENDA (provided during program)

*Copy/save Google Doc folders in the Resource section below into your account to use and edit.

**REQUIRED to watch the STOP the Bleed Training Video prior to June 8th and complete the quiz at the end. Save and bring your quiz results with you on June 8th. 

Resources

*Copy/save Google Doc folders in the Resource section below into your account to use and edit.

healthcare professionals

Welcome to our June 2024 ESC Credit Recovery and Enrichment Summer Camp

CAMP LOGISTICS:

Our camp runs the entire month of June 2024, starting June 3rd through June 28th, Monday – Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The camp is located at the Education Service Center at 424 E Mound Street, Circleville, OH 43113. LIMITED SPOTS! NO FEES! GRANT-FUNDED OPPORTUNITY, click here to register, the deadline has been extended to May 25, 2024.

*If transportation is a barrier, the program has provided funds for the school district’s transportation department to assist, but arrangements must be made with transportation departments directly prior to June 1, 2024.

CREDIT RECOVERY:

Our camp provides targeted academic support for students who need to recover credits or improve their grades. Our experienced instructors tailor lessons to individual needs, focusing on key concepts and providing personalized assistance to ensure mastery. Whether you’re struggling with math, science, language arts, or any other subject, our comprehensive program will help you get back on track and regain confidence in your academic abilities.

SUMMER ENRICHMENT:

In addition to credit recovery, our camp offers a wide range of enrichment opportunities to spark curiosity and foster a love of learning. From STEM workshops, and creative sewing classes, to 3D modeling/printing, coding connected rovers, financial literacy, and electrical circuits and LED displays, there’s something for everyone to explore. Our engaging activities encourage critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity, empowering students to discover new interests and talents beyond the classroom.

RISE-UP CUSTOMER SERVICE & RETAIL INDUSTRY FUNDAMENTALS CREDENTIALS:

The NRF Foundation’s RISE Up introductory course – Retail Industry Fundamentals – is perfect for students wanting to develop workplace readiness skills and looking for a first job. Students will develop basic customer service and math skills to conduct sales transactions. Students will build an understanding of the retail industry, its impact on the economy, and the diverse jobs available. They will learn best practices for interviewing and exploring career paths.

READY TO GET STARTED?

Don’t let the summer slip away without making the most of it! SPOTS ARE LIMITED, CLICK HERE ENROLL TODAY! We offer three tracks depending on your interests: 1) Credit Recover + Enrichment Combined Programming; 2) Enrichment Only Programming; or 3) RISE-UP Retail Industry Fundamentals Credential Program.

CONTACT US:

To learn more about our programs, schedule, and enrollment process, contact either Nicole Bell, 21st Century Partner Program Director, nicole.bell@pickawayesc.org, 740-474-7529, www.pickawayesc.org/ or Meghan Thoreau, OSU Extension Educator, thoreau.1@osu.edu, 740-474-7534. We can’t wait to welcome you to our summer camp community!

PROGRAM PARTNERS:

Educational Service Center, Pickaway County | 21st Century Partner Program | OSU Extension, Pickaway County | Texas Instruments | OSU Electrical & Computer Engineering Department | NRF Foundation RISE UP | Guest Educators from Logan Elm & Teays Valley Local School Districts.

Cultivating Curiosity: STEAM and Agricultural Coding Adventures at Westfall Elementary

Meghan Thoreau, OSU Extension Educator

This March Westfall Elementary School started spring by hosting Cultivating Curiosity: a STEAM and Agricultural Adventures for students and parents to explore STEAM in their school. The district partnered with OSU Extension, Pickaway County to bring an agricultural coding session for students and parents to learn to code with simulated ground drones working on a simulated agricultural landscape. Click to watch a short highlight video of the shared experience.

Students coded connected drones from Spheros, a robotics company, best known for its programmable robots and connected toys. Students coded both, Sphero RVRs and Sphero Bolt, customizable robots that can be programmed and controlled using various platforms like Scratch, Sphero Edu App, Raspberry Pi, or Arduino.

Our program used Sphero EDU free app available in both Google Play or the App Store. Sphero EDU allows users to program using block code or text.

Spheros are designed to be educational, allowing users to learn about robotics, coding, and electronics in a hands-on way. The Sphero RVR is equipped with various sensors, motors, and expansion ports, making it suitable for a wide range of projects and applications.

You can typically buy Sphero products, including Sphero RVRs, from various retailers both online and in physical stores. Some popular places to purchase Sphero robots include:

  1. Official Sphero website: The official Sphero website often offers a wide range of products directly from the manufacturer.
  2. Online retailers: Websites like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target often carry Sphero products in their inventory.
  3. Specialty robotics or educational stores: Some specialty stores focus on robotics, STEM education, or educational toys, and they may carry Sphero products.
  4. Electronics stores: Stores like Apple Stores, Fry’s Electronics, or Micro Center might have Sphero products available for purchase.

Be Creative, Keep Coding.