Dorchester rescue-drone pilot inspires young engineers
Gemma Alcock's presenting a series of talks online to inspire the tech industry's next generation.
A search and rescue drone pilot from Dorchester's inspiring children to take up a career in engineering through a series of online talks.
Gemma Alcock runs Skybound Rescue which specialises in flying drones to save lives.
Now, she's joined STEAM school (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) hosting a series of talks about robotics for children between 9-14 years old.
Gemma has worked with and advised search and rescue organisations around the world on their use of drone technology, most notably the RNLI and Lowland Rescue teams.
The series of six talks hosted on STEAM School
Gemma said:
"I think there's often a misconception that in order t have a career in engineering or a career in technology, that you must be good at maths or science.
Actually, I was really good at Art and Design, but that has given me a competitive edge over my competition because I think differently, I think creatively, I think outside the box and those kinds of skills have really helped me to be successful in the technology world.
"I hope to show children that you are inspired by technology then you are right for the technology industry."
She says she wants more children to join the tech industry.
"I'm a firm believer that children are the future of every industry and therefore the future belongs to those industries that inspire children to join them."
STEAM School runs six different missions each year exploring science and futuristic technology. They've also featured missions hosted by people from Instagram, Pokemon Go, Fortnite and Star Wars.
The next mission is Fashion Futures, followed by 'Outbreak', exploring medical innovation in response to COVID-19.
You can find out more about STEAM School and Gemma's talks here: