The drones will help our students better understand the mechanics of aviation and open their minds to future careers in aerospace, engineering and medical flight operations.”

Eric Bennett | Shadow Ridge High School engineering teacher

Air medical service provider Air Methods donated nine drones to Shadow Ridge High School, a local STEM high school in Surprise, to support student learning and innovation.

The drones, previously part of Air Methods’ Spright program, no longer have flight capabilities but will serve as valuable tools for hands-on education.

Students will use them to study how drone technology works and may repurpose parts to build other projects, giving them practical exposure to aeronautics, engineering and robotics.

“STEM education is all about giving students opportunities to explore, innovate and problem-solve,” said Mark Smolenski, chief financial officer for Air Methods. “We are proud to contribute resources that will allow students to get up close with drone technology and inspire the next generation of engineers and aviation professionals.”

The high school was selected for the donation through a connection with one of Air Methods’ team members who has ties to the school’s STEM program. With the drones already located in Arizona, the donation also provided a simple and cost-effective way for the school to integrate them into classroom activities quickly.

While this is the first time Air Methods has donated drones, company officials said the initiative is a way to support local education and foster curiosity about aviation and technology.

“We’re grateful for Air Methods’ generosity,” said Shadow Ridge High School engineering teacher Eric Bennett. “The drones will help our students better understand the mechanics of aviation and open their minds to future careers in aerospace, engineering and medical flight operations.”