

RECF Summit for Drone Programs
2025
Introduction

The 2025 Inaugural REC Foundation Drone Competition Summit will take place on July 22nd-23rd, 2025, with a check-in reception on July 21st at the Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch in St. Louis, Missouri.
Note: This Summit is for the REC Foundation Drone Competition and in a different building than the REC Foundation Summit for VEX Robotics Programs.
This Summit will feature general sessions and separate breakout sessions for Coaches and Event Partners, with a range of training and discussion topics. This is a great opportunity to connect, learn, and engage in meaningful conversations. Plus, attendees can earn Professional Development credit for participating.
Why Attend? We’re excited to unveil several new technology tools aimed at enhancing team and event operations, including:
- A new web application for Aerial Drone Competition team and event registration.
- A new web-based Robotics Education & Competition Foundation (RECF) Competition Portal to run Aerial Drone Competition events.
- A new Aerial Drone Competition Mobile App to access competition information.
- Specialized sessions tailored for both coaches and event partners
- Engaging discussions on best practices and future innovations
- A chance to connect, learn, and grow within the Aerial Drone Competition community
- No registration fee—just cover your travel and lodging!
Attendees are responsible for their own travel and lodging expenses. A reserved hotel room block is available at the Drury Hotel Hotel St. Louis at the Arch. We encourage you to book through our designated hotel block before June 18, 2025 to take advantage of convenient accommodations and discounted rates.
Lunch will be provided on both July 22 and 23, along with dinner on July 22. On the evening of July 23, dinner will not be provided, giving attendees the opportunity to explore St. Louis and enjoy the local dining scene individually or in groups.
Capacity is limited to 50 attendees and interest surveys were collected in February/March. If you would like to be added to a waitlist, complete this interest form.
Questions? Reach out to your Regional Support Manager.
Agenda
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
General Session Topics for REC Foundation Drone Competition Summit
Engage in lively discussions on topics that impact everyone in our community. These sessions are designed to keep you informed, inspired, and connected as we head into the new season. Topics will include:
- What’s New for the 2025–26 Season
- Understanding Qualifying Criteria
- Team Fundraising & Sustainability
- Volunteer Coordination Best Practices
- Securing Event Sponsors
- Code of Conduct & Student-Centered Programs
- Championship Types & Structure
- Certifications for Instructors and Students
- …and more!
These sessions are a great opportunity to ask questions, share ideas, and gain valuable insights no matter your role.
Breakout Sessions
We will offer sessions tailored specifically for Coaches, Event Partners, and some that are relevant to all attendees. No matter your role, you're welcome to join any session that interests you. Most sessions will be offered multiple times, giving you the flexibility to attend as many as you'd like.
We especially encourage Coaches considering hosting events to attend Event Partner sessions for valuable insights, and Event Partners to join Coach sessions to better support team development in their regions.
Please Note: Topics are subject to change and will be finalized as the event approaches.
Block 1
Block 2
Block 3
Block 4
Block 5
Block 6
Explore creative applications like flight labs, drone-perspective storytelling, and historical simulations. Leave with ready-to-use lessons, strategies for diverse learners, and tools aligned to NGSS and CSTA standards. Whether you're new to drones or expanding cross-curricular use, this session offers practical ideas to spark curiosity and deepen learning."