University’s Worldwide Campus To Launch STEM Program With Local School District During Bell Helicopter Alliance Fort Worth Air Show

Visitors to the Bell Bell Helicopter Alliance Fort Worth Air Show Sept. 12-13 will get an exclusive glimpse inside the world of unmanned systems (“drones”), flight training and an aviation virtual learning lab as part of the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University mobile interactive exhibit.

The 53-foot trailer known as the Embry-Riddle Experience will include unmanned aircraft demonstrations, aviation and unmanned simulators, a virtual crash lab and information about the university’s more than 75 degree programs, with presentations on how Embry-Riddle students, staff and faculty are leading the way into the future of aerospace and aviation.

Simulators in the Embry-Riddle Experience provide a variety of fixed-wing, rotary and multirotor aircraft models in realistic operating settings such as airfield and steep soaring slope locales in the bayou, desert and mountains.

Another unique feature of the Embry-Riddle Experience is the Virtual Crash Lab (VLAB), which was developed in conjunction with the university’s Aircraft Accident Investigation curriculum and is designed to allow participants to interactively inspect a crashed commercial aircraft. Operators can move and survey the crash site with the use of Oculus Goggles.

Also scheduled is an appearance by world-renowned aerobatic performer Matt Chapman flying the newly debuted Embry-Riddle Extra 330LX.

Prior to the event, Embry-Riddle Worldwide representatives will sign an agreement with Fort Worth’s Northwest Independent School District to provide aviation/aerospace and engineering courses to students in the district’s Aeronautics and Aviation Academy scheduled to launch next year at V.R. Eaton High School.

“The partnership with the Northwest Independent School District to support its Aeronautics and Aviation Academy symbolizes Embry-Riddle’s unwavering commitment to advancing aviation/aerospace and STEM education nationwide,” said J. Michael Williams, executive director of enrollment services and partnerships at Embry-Riddle Worldwide. “This relationship will allow us to prepare the next generation of scholars, practitioners and innovators to solve the challenges facing our world."

FMI: www.erau.edu, www.allianceairshow.com