2nd Annual Summer Drone Camp kicks off

Pago Pago, American Samoa — The skies will soon be buzzing with excitement as the 2nd Annual Summer Drone Camp officially takes off.

Organized by OceaniaCDN (OCDN) in partnership with the American Samoa Environmental Protection Agency (AS-EPA) and the American Samoa Telecommunications Authority (ASTCA), the 2025 Drone Camp runs from June 24– 30, to promote STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education and build local skills in drone use.

Following last year’s successful virtual pilot program, this year’s camp is an in-person experience, with instructors from Southwestern Community College and Palomar College to lead hands-on sessions and engage directly with participants.

The camp opened for registration in May 2025, and 25 participants were selected to take part in this exciting opportunity.

“We are extremely proud to be a part of this program by bringing it back this summer,” said Chris Danielson, Acting CEO of ASTCA. “Drone technology is already changing the
way industries work, and this camp is providing a pathway with the tools and experience to be part of that future.”

As part of its sponsorship, ASTCA has provided in-kind support, including WiFi connectivity throughout the camp, 25 handsets with data plans, and ASTCA-branded swag items for all participants.

Participants will earn TRUST FAA Recreational Certificate upon successful completion of the program. Each participant will also get to keep their drones and ASTCA issued handsets to support their learning and continued practice.

The camp features two tailored program tracks. The High School Drone Academy introduces students to drone fundamentals through team-based challenges and field exercises. A second track is offered for educators and ASG agency staff, focusing on practical drone skills and providing access to drones for future classroom or agency projects.

An optional Field Day on Saturday, June 28 will give participants additional real-world experience in drone navigation and environmental mapping in local settings.

Edna Noga, Director of AS-EPA and spokesperson for OCDN, expressed gratitude to all who made the program possible.

“We sincerely thank ASTCA for their commitment to this program and for serving as a major sponsor,” said Noga. “Together with our partners, we are creating meaningful access to technology and empowering local drone operators.”

For more information or to learn how to get involved in future programs, please contact Edna Noga at 699-0282 or email OceaniaCDN at [email protected].