Media junior Xochil Argueta pilots a Skydio drone while senior Jayden Gonzalez keeps an eye in the sky. (Photo: Dave Roush)
BRONX, NY – On Thursday, October 24th, Truman High School students got a firsthand look at the future of technology when Skydio, a top drone company, brought an interactive workshop to campus. Around 200 students from computer engineering, robotics, and media communications gathered to explore how cutting-edge drones are being used in public safety and infrastructure projects. With support from the NYPD and MTA Bridges and Tunnels, Skydio’s team showcased drones in action, demonstrating real-world applications that go far beyond recreation.
Media senior Damon Dunbar gets an up-close look at a Skydio drone. (Photo: Juan Rodriguez)
“It was so cool to see how drones can actually help people and fix things,” shared sophomore Isabel Barletta. “It made me want to learn more about the engineering side, not just using tech but actually building it.”
The workshop highlighted how the MTA uses drones to increase worker safety by inspecting bridges and tunnels without exposing crews to dangerous heights or conditions. The NYPD, meanwhile, relies on drone technology for public safety, from assisting in search and rescue operations to monitoring large events.
Students also got the rare opportunity to go hands-on with some of the highest-tech drones in Skydio’s fleet, learning to pilot them alongside Skydio’s experts. The NYPD joined in by demonstrating some of their own autonomous technologies, giving students an up-close look at tools used in high-stakes situations.
Sen. Jamaal Bailey discusses privacy and drone regulations with students. (Photo: D. Roush)
New York State Senator Jamaal Bailey and New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie also dropped by to see the students in action. Senator Bailey even took a turn flying a drone, sparking conversations with students about drones’ impacts on safety and privacy and discussing ways to shape future legislation around these rapidly advancing technologies.
Media Teacher David Roush emphasized the value of the experience, adding, “It’s essential for students to see how technology like this can be used beyond just shooting video or for hobbies. Real-world applications show them the potential to impact industries and communities.”
Based in California, Skydio is a leader in autonomous drone technology, designing drones that leverage AI to navigate complex environments without human intervention. Founded in 2014, the company has quickly become a major player in both commercial and public safety sectors, with clients across the U.S. relying on Skydio’s drones for tasks from infrastructure inspection to emergency response. At the end of the event, Skydio donated a Skydio 2+ drone to each participating class, giving students ongoing access to explore the technology firsthand.
NYPD Det. Victor Mevo shows off a drone used by police. (Photo: J. Rodriguez)