Design, Build, & Fly Airplanes (Formerly UAV Engineering)
Build your own airplane!
Embark on a journey of discovery in our Design, Build & Fly Airplanes course! Explore the history of flight, from the Wright brothers' pioneering achievements to the modern designs of aviation. Uncover the evolution of aerodynamics and learn why airplanes have their distinctive shapes. To ensure that you can be successful and experience the wonder of unpowered flight, we'll begin by building a simple glider. Next, you'll take flight to a new level as we move into groups and construct a simple powered RC airplane and learn the reasoning behind aircraft designs.
But the learning doesn't stop there! After building an RC airplane, we'll enter into the realm of 2D CAD (Computer-Aided Design). You'll begin your journey in the art of using CAD software to design and fabricate your very own custom plane design.
Throughout this hands-on learning experience, you'll also emphasize safety in RC flying, collaborate on group projects, gain insights from industry experts, and showcase your achievements with an end of semester exhibition. Whether you're interested in engineering or simply curious about aviation, get ready to take off and explore the world of flight!
This is a recommended course for students participating in the Erie High School Academy of Engineering and Aerospace.
Additional Benefits:
In this class you will be using Solid Professor AutoCAD tutorials to learn how to create 2D and 3D objects. Upon completion of the course, you will be able to take the Certification Exam and become CAD Certified. The Innovation Center also offers a unique opportunity for you to apply to become an SVVSD employee and join our Aero Team as an Aeronautical Engineer. Continue building your knowledge of Aeronautical design and get paid while having fun after school!
Course Information
- Course Subject
- Course Number
- CTE83520
- Course Duration
- 1 Semester
- Course Credit
- 0.5 Practical Arts
- Prerequisite
- Any of the Following: CTE83505 Intro to Aeronautics; CTE83150 Flight Concepts/Training; CTE83157 Pilot Ground 1; CTE83158 Pilot Ground 2; CTE83160 Aviation Discovery // Grades 10-12
Recent News
Take a look at some of our recent news.
SVVSD Innovation Center students present VR project at NASA conference
Erie High senior Kayla Evans and Niwot High junior Katelin VonFeldt are looking to help NASA address isolation challenges for astronauts by combining virtual reality and sensory-based memory triggers with exercise. They’re creating the project for NASA HUNCH, a program that engages high school and college students in real-world research and development for space missions.
Parent University Session, February 20
St. Vrain’s Parent University program provides training, information, and resources to parents and caregivers in order to support the well-being and success of their children. All spring sessions are from 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. and will be held virtually. Spanish translation services will be available. Join us on Zoom, Feb. 20 from 5-6:30 p.m.Adolescent […]
Innovation Center Hosts Second Annual Accessibility Night
Empowering Students to Build a More Accessible Community St. Vrain Valley School District (SVVSD) students are leading the charge for inclusivity and accessibility with the district’s second annual Accessibility Night, scheduled for February 21, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Innovation Center (33 Quail Road, Longmont). The event is free and open to […]