North Alabama Radio Control Association offers STEM lessons to local students

HARVEST – During June and most of July, a local hobby club has committed to training classes for students in middle school.

North Alabama Radio Control Association or NARCA devoted seven weeks to conduct a class with middle school students in Harvest Youth Club on Lockhart Road about principles of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics or STEM. In summary, NARCA is a model airplane club with dedicated members who build, show and fly their planes.

“This class has been oriented to introduce the students to the fundamentals of flight and giving the students hands-on exercises to create paper airplanes they could experiment with,” NARCA member said. “We have also provided some flight demonstrations, as well as a flight simulator time.”

“This (activity) has been an effort to provide STEM training, which is very important to the development of students,” Reynolds said.

NARCA members and the Harvest students finalized the classes on July 27 with a flying event at Epps Airpark in Harvest. “They had an opportunity to view various flying demonstrations,” Reynolds said. The students also had a chance to “get in a training flight with one of our instructors.”

In other activities, NARCA will participate in Model Aeronautics Day, which is associated with the National Model Aviation Academy. The event on Aug. 22 will be held at Epps Airpark in Harvest. For directions to the airpark from Madison, drive north on Wall Triana; veer west on alternate Harvest Road; turn west (left) on Harvest Road and then turn north (right) to reach 1230 Carroll Road.

“This event is designed to introduce the public to the great hobby of model aviation. Those interested will have an opportunity for an orientation flight with an instructor,” Reynolds said. “A number of club members will be present to provide flying demonstrations, talk about the hobby and answer any questions.”

For more information about Model Aeronautics Day, call 256-797-5970.

NARCA’s members, along with guests, will find helpful accommodations at Epps Airpark, which is privately owned: grass runways, grass pit area, battery chargers, covered shelter, electricity/ power, fire extinguisher, gated entrance, handicap accessible, indoor restrooms, safety fences, setup tables, windsock and poles, spectator area, startup stands and workbenches.

“Ready to elevate your hobby?” Reynolds said. “Dive into the exciting world of R/C (radio control) airplanes! Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or new to the skies, there’s something for everyone. From aerobatic models to scale replicas, endless possibilities await. Join NARCA today.”

For more, visit Facebook/ NARCA – North Alabama Radio Control Association.