From Flight to 3D Model: Students Explore Drone Mapping at Valdez High School

T3 Alaska college mentor Petie Deveer and T3 Alaska director Adam Low recently visited Valdez High School to introduce students to the power of drone technology through a hands-on aerial mapping project. Working with both woodshop and physics classes, students had the opportunity to step into the role of drone operators and data collectors—gaining real-world experience with tools used in industries ranging from engineering to environmental science.

Each group participated in short drone flights, capturing aerial imagery of their school campus. In just a few minutes per mission, students gathered the data needed to create a full 3D scan of the building. The excitement was immediate—students were eager to fly, curious about the technology, and engaged in understanding how images taken from above could be transformed into a digital model.
What stood out most was how accessible the process has become. Using photogrammetry software, the captured images were quickly converted into a 3D model of the school. The resulting file was then refined into a solid object, opening the door for potential 3D printing and further student-led design work.

This project highlighted more than just technical skills—it sparked curiosity and showed students how emerging technologies can be applied in practical, creative ways. Drone-based mapping proved to be an engaging and effective entry point into STEM learning, and T3 Alaska is excited to continue expanding these opportunities to more schools in the future.