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Podcast Episode

Building Real Planes: Inside Wings Over the Rockies STEM

Homeschool Yo Kids··7 August 2026·38 min

About this episode

Are you looking for a way to take your child's STEM education to new heights? In this episode, we explore how homeschool students are building actual airplanes and training for careers in aerospace through the Wings Over the Rockies program. Whether your student wants to be a pilot, an engineer, or even a space farmer, there is a path for everyone in this unique hands-on learning environment. Join host Jae as she sits down with Nedra Hall and Jessica from Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum to discuss their innovative aerospace exploration programs for middle and high schoolers. We dive deep into the mechanics of building a flight-ready aircraft, the high-energy world of drone soccer, and how students can earn their FAA drone pilot licensing. This conversation is a must-watch for any parent looking to bridge the gap between traditional academics and real-world trades. You will also hear about the importance of self-care for educators and how specialized programs can help students with diverse learning needs thrive outside of a typical classroom setting. From NASA-partnered biology projects to field trips at the Air Force Academy, this episode is packed with inspiration for your homeschooling journey. Chapters0:00 Welcome to the Home School Yo Kids Podcast2:15 Meet the Guests from Wings Over the Rockies5:30 Transitioning from Public Schools to Museum Education8:45 What is the Wings Aerospace Exploration Program11:30 Students Building a Real Functional Airplane14:15 Space Farming and NASA Research Partnerships17:00 Drone Pilot Training and FAA Part 107 Testing20:45 What is Drone Soccer and How to Play24:00 Exploring the Denver and Centennial Museum Locations27:15 Tuition Details and Scholarship Opportunities31:00 Field Trips and the Colorado Aerospace Community34:30 Self-Care and Maintaining a Work-Life Balance37:00 Success for Students with Diverse Learning Needs38:57 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up Check out the links in the description to learn more about the Wings Aerospace programs and how to get your family involved. Be sure to subscribe for more support and inspiration for your homeschooling lifestyle! #homeschooling #aerospace #stemeducation #aviation #dronepilot