Thirty Oklahoma high school teams showcased their drone-powered search and rescue skills at the inaugural “Fly Forward: Search and Rescue State Championship” on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at Lake Carl Blackwell in Stillwater.
The day-long event was hosted by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education (OAIRE).
Student teams were challenged by real-life scenarios including locating a downed hiker, an overturned kayaker, and a snakebite victim.
The rescue operations were staged with support from Oklahoma State University Police, Stillwater Medical Center, Payne County Emergency Management, and LifeNet Emergency Medical Services. From a mobile command center, the student teams received dispatch information and then used maps and analyzed critical data to develop and execute rescue plans.
Paula Kedy, Statewide Aerospace STEM Education Manager, praised the competition, saying, “This event was truly exceptional. It challenged students to utilize the skills gained in their aviation classes to effectively tackle real-world emergency scenarios.”
The overall state champion for the event was Wilson High School. Individual category winners were Putnam City Aviation, Kingston High school and Wilson High School. The overall teamwork and spirit award was given to P91 Homeschool Co-op.
“It was incredible to watch these young pilots and aspiring first responders in action.” said Dr. Jamey Jacob, OAIRE executive director. “Their skill, teamwork, and excitement during each successful rescue were inspiring, and even how they handled themselves as they worked through challenges and roadblocks (should I say ‘air’ blocks?). I can’t wait to see the competition grow even bigger and better next year.”
Oklahoma is a national leader in preparing students for the aerospace workforce, with 149 schools offering aviation coursework. These schools have creatively partnered with local airports, aerospace industries, and higher education institutions to raise student awareness of aerospace careers and essential skills needed to succeed.
Grayson Ardies, ODAA executive director, emphasized the importance of collaboration among Oklahoma’s high school aerospace education programs and community partners and programs like OAIRE.
“The most beneficial relationship we can cultivate is one that bridges our established aerospace industry and the aspiring professionals of tomorrow,” said Ardies. “This vital connection fosters a remarkable win-win scenario: industry partners acquire a pool of well-trained, skilled workers, educational institutions draw in enthusiastic and passionate students, and those students are equipped with the chance to embark on rewarding careers with higher salaries.”
Oklahoma was named the nationwide leader in high schools providing aerospace curriculum for the fourth consecutive year in June 2025.
The state’s consistent leadership in aerospace education is a direct reflection of its commitment to supporting Oklahoma’s second-largest and fastest-growing industry: aerospace and defense. By strategically expanding and promoting aerospace programs, Oklahoma is working to cement its national standing and secure a long-term, skilled workforce for the aerospace sector.
For more information about the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics and its education initiatives, please visit oklahoma.gov/aerospace/aero-education.
