2025 REC Foundation Drone Competition Summit for Coaches and Event Partners

Introducing the REC Foundation Drone Competition Summit

The 2025 Inaugural REC Foundation Drone Competition Summit will take place on July 22nd-23rd, 2025, with a check-in reception on July 21st at the Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch in St. Louis, Missouri.

Note: This Summit is for the REC Foundation Drone Competition and in a different building than the REC Foundation Summit for VEX Robotics Programs.

This Summit will feature general sessions and separate breakout sessions for Coaches and Event Partners, with a range of training and discussion topics. This is a great opportunity to connect, learn, and engage in meaningful conversations. Plus, attendees can earn Professional Development credit for participating.

Why Attend? We’re excited to unveil several new technology tools aimed at enhancing team and event operations, including:

• A new web application for Aerial Drone Competition team and event registration.
• A new web-based Robotics Education & Competition Foundation (RECF) Competition Portal to run Aerial Drone Competition events.
• A new Aerial Drone Competition Mobile App to access competition information.
• Specialized sessions tailored for both coaches and event partners
• Engaging discussions on best practices and future innovations
• A chance to connect, learn, and grow within the Aerial Drone Competition community
• No registration fee—just cover your travel and lodging!

Attendees are responsible for their own travel and lodging expenses. A reserved hotel room block will be available at the Drury Hotel Hotel St. Louis at the Arch. We encourage you to book through our designated hotel block to take advantage of convenient accommodations and discounted rates.

Lunch will be provided on both July 22 and 23, along with dinner on July 22. On the evening of July 23, dinner will not be provided, giving attendees the opportunity to explore St. Louis and enjoy the local dining scene individually or in groups.

Capacity is limited to 50 attendees and interest surveys were collected in February/March. If you would like to be added to a waitlist, complete this interest form.

Questions? Reach out to your Regional Support Manager.

Agenda for REC Foundation Drone Competition Summit

(The Agenda is for Central Daylight Time and subject to change)

Day 1 - July 21, 2025

Day 2 - July 22, 2025

Day 3 - July 23, 2025

General Session Topics for REC Foundation Drone Competition Summit

Engage in lively discussions on topics that impact everyone in our community. These sessions are designed to keep you informed, inspired, and connected as we head into the new season. Topics will include:

• What’s New for the 2025–26 Season
• Understanding Qualifying Criteria
• Team Fundraising & Sustainability
• Volunteer Coordination Best Practices
• Securing Event Sponsors
• Code of Conduct & Student-Centered Programs
• Championship Types & Structure
• Certifications for Instructors and Students
• …and more!

These sessions are a great opportunity to ask questions, share ideas, and gain valuable insights no matter your role.

Breakout Session Topics for REC Foundation Drone Competition Summit

We will offer sessions tailored specifically for Coaches, Event Partners, and some that are relevant to all attendees. No matter your role, you're welcome to join any session that interests you. Most sessions will be offered multiple times, giving you the flexibility to attend as many as you'd like.

We especially encourage Coaches considering hosting events to attend Event Partner sessions for valuable insights, and Event Partners to join Coach sessions to better support team development in their regions.

Please note: Topics are subject to change and will be finalized as the event approaches.

Breakout Session Descriptions

Coach Corner: Best Practices for Success

Session Count: 2
Description: Whether you're new to the Aerial Drone Competition or a returning coach, this interactive session will highlight tried-and-true strategies for building strong teams, navigating the season, and making the most of your time and resources.

Event Partner Roundtable: Sharing Best Practices

Session Count: 2
Description: A collaborative session for Event Partners to exchange ideas, experiences, and practical tips. From planning to execution, learn what works and what to avoid—perfect for both first-time and seasoned hosts.

RECF Competition Portal 101: Creating Your Event

Session Count: 2
Description: Get hands-on training with the new RECFevents Portal. Learn how to create and publish your event online. Bring your laptop and follow along as we walk through the setup process.

RECF Competition Portal 201: Running Your Event

Session Count: 2
Description: Dive into the logistics of running an event using the new RECFevents Competition Portal. From tablet scoring to event displays—get the tools to confidently run a smooth and successful competition. Bring your laptop.

Robolink & CoDrone EDU: Updates, FAQs, and Best Practices

Session Count: 1
Description: Stay ahead of the curve with the latest updates from Robolink for the 2025–26 season. This session is for returning coaches who need a refresher or want to know more about Robolink, CoDrone EDU, and available resources. We will cover exciting updates, best practices, troubleshooting strategies, and available educator resources. 

Robolink & CoDrone EDU: Sensor-Powered Missions with Blockly & Python 

Session Count: 2
Description: Get ready to code! In this hands-on session, you will explore all 7 sensors on CoDrone EDU. You will gain a deeper understanding of how each sensor works, how to apply sensor-based programming in autonomous flight missions, and how to guide students through debugging code. You can participate in this session using Blockly or Python. Bring your laptop for this hands-on session!

Robolink & CoDrone EDU Boot Camp: Diagnosing your Drone

Session Count: 2
Description: Already read all the help articles and watched the videos, but your drone still isn’t working? This hands-on session takes a deep dive into common CoDrone EDU hardware issues, offering practical tips for diagnosing and resolving problems.Team up to complete a pre-flight inspection checklist and collaborate on best practices to support students during competitions. (This is not a programming session.)

ADC Pro: Beta Test Results & What’s Next

Session Count: 1
Description: Get a first look at ADC Pro, the advanced competition for high school students. Hear what our beta testers experienced and learn how this new level of competition is shaping up for future seasons.

Teaching with Drones: Strategies for Middle School Classrooms

Session Count: 1
Description: Discover age-appropriate ways to bring drone technology into the middle school classroom. This session will cover curriculum integration, classroom management tips, and hands-on learning strategies.

Drones in CTE: Workforce Readiness & Career Pathways

Session Count: 1
Description: Learn how to integrate drone technology into Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Explore how ADC supports multiple career clusters, from STEM and aviation to public safety and logistics.

Building Industry Connections: RECF Development & Sponsorship

Session Count: 2
Description: Learn how to connect your program with industry partners and sponsors. Hear from the RECF Development Team about how to tell your story, secure support, and link student learning to real-world opportunities.

Behind the Curtain: The Judging Process Explained

Session Count: 2
Description: Ever wondered what judges look for in a winning team? Step into the judge’s shoes, explore rubrics, and learn how to support students throughout the season to prepare for a strong judging experience.

Competition Logbook Fundamentals: Make It Work for Your Team

Session Count: 2
Description: The Competition Logbook doesn’t have to feel like homework. Learn how to guide your students in using the logbook as an opportunity to practice written communication skills, which includes collaboration between students on the team, organizing and synthesizing ideas, and summarizing activities and actions.

Session Presentations

Presentations will be made available after the Summit concludes.