On November 19, 2024, ninth-grade students from Renton High School had the unique opportunity to explore Amazon Prime Air and learn about the cutting-edge technology behind autonomous drone delivery. Hosted by a dedicated team of Amazon Prime Air Volunteers, the event was led and facilitated by Carol Peckenham, with support from Amelia Mahan, Fernanda Villegas, Sarah Rith, and Alex Zea. Students also engaged with an inspiring panel featuring Supply Chain Manufacturing Engineer Fernanda Villegas, Senior Manager, Global Supply Chain Catina Broadway, and UX Designer Vanessa Perez-Robles.
The experience began with a history lesson on Amazon Prime Air’s mission to deliver packages up to five pounds within 30 minutes using autonomous drones. Students were fascinated by the intricate design challenges, safety measures, and regulatory milestones, including achieving FAA approval to fly over private land.
The highlight of the Field Trip was a guided tour of the manufacturing floor led by Fernanda Villegas, who shared her firsthand experience building Prime Air drones from start to finish. Students observed the drone production process from a safe distance, gaining insights into the precision and innovation required for autonomous delivery technology.
Cindy Martinez, the participating Educator, expressed appreciation for the event’s impact on the students, who left inspired and excited about the possibilities in STEM careers. This immersive Field Trip underscored the importance of hands-on learning and exposure to groundbreaking technology, further reinforcing IGNITE’s mission to empower students to explore opportunities in STEM fields.
“It really opened my eyes to having multiple options and not having to stay in one place my whole life. Hearing about moving from place to place and giving every opportunity a chance was inspiring.”
9th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event inspired me by giving me more ideas of what I can be when I grow up. I learned about drones, and I always wanted to learn about them!”
9th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event inspired me because I met people with similar experiences. My favorite thing was everything we did. This was a great experience.”
9th Grade IGNITE Student
“We talked about jobs and amazing discoveries and creations. Talking about what you want to be and who you want to be was inspiring. The drones and all their features were super interesting, and I learned a lot.”
9th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
100%
INTERESTED IN STEM
75%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
88%
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
IN PURSUING STEM
94%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Carol Peckenham
- Amelia Mahan
- Fernanda Villegas
- Sarah Rith
- Alex Zea
- Catina Broadway
- Vanessa Perez-Robles
- Cindy Martinez
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.