Drone Orientation Programme Organized at REC Hulkoti in Association with Skyraft Aerosolutions Pvt. Ltd.

R.T.E. Society’s Rural Engineering College, Hulkoti, organized a Drone Orientation Programme in association with Skyraft Aerosolutions Pvt. Ltd. The programme was conducted with the objective of introducing students to drone technology, its applications, design process, manufacturing aspects, and interdisciplinary opportunities.

The programme was graced by Shri Sachin D. Patil, Secretary, R.T.E. Society, Dr. V. M. Patil, Administrator, R.T.E. Society, Dr. B. N. Patil, Principal, REC Hulkoti, Capt. Girish Odugoudar, Founder & Managing Director, Skyraft Aerosolutions Pvt. Ltd., and his team members from Skyraft Aerosolutions.

The orientation session began with Mrs. Chandrika, who explained the fundamentals of drone technology. She introduced the students to the concept of drones, different types of drones, their components, applications, and real-time uses. She also explained how various engineering branches are integrated in the field of drone manufacturing and how drones are being adopted in different sectors.

The next session was conducted by Mr. Shivakumar, Mechanical Engineer and team member of Skyraft Aerosolutions. He explained the role of engineers from various disciplines in building a drone. He highlighted how a mechanical engineer converts a virtual design into a real product using tools such as Solid Edge, CATIA, and other CAD software. He also explained the importance of analysis and simulation using FEA and CFD tools, especially in structural analysis, vibration analysis, stability, control, and performance improvement. He further discussed the selection of suitable materials and composites in drone design and manufacturing.

Mr. Shivakumar also explained the role of Electronics and Communication Engineering in drone development, including sensors, flight controllers, motors, radar systems, PCB design, circuits, wiring, and embedded software. He emphasized that Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Computer Science Engineering play a major role in solving challenges such as GPS signal blockage, target identification without GPS, autonomous navigation, and drone software development. He also explained the role of Electrical and Telecommunication Engineering in drone systems.

The session also covered project ideas at different levels and internship opportunities in areas such as drone design, electronics, artificial intelligence, flight testing, and drone application development.

Another resource person from Skyraft Aerosolutions, Mr. Dinesh Badgandi, also addressed the students. He shared his experiences and spoke about the challenges faced by students while learning new technologies. He advised students to identify and learn the right technologies at the right time to become successful in their careers. He also discussed the opportunities and challenges created by Artificial Intelligence and rapid technological changes. He explained how technology has transformed over the years by giving examples such as the Y2K era and the growth of companies like Infosys, Google, and Amazon, whose value increased significantly due to timely technological adoption and investment.

After the technical sessions, a live drone demonstration was conducted. Shri Sachin D. Patil, Secretary, R.T.E. Society, Dr. V. M. Patil, Administrator, and Dr. B. N. Patil, Principal, also experienced the drone operation. Students and staff members gathered on the occasion and keenly witnessed the live demonstration. Mr. Shivakumar trained the participants in operating the drone. The demonstration continued for about 20 minutes, during which everyone observed the drone in flight with great interest and enthusiasm.

The programme helped students understand the importance of drone technology and its interdisciplinary nature. It also motivated them to explore emerging areas such as drone design, manufacturing, AI-based navigation, electronics, simulation, flight testing, and entrepreneurship.

The orientation programme concluded with an interactive discussion, encouraging students from all departments to actively participate in upcoming drone-related training, projects, internships, and hands-on learning activities.