Makerspace interested in group RC introductions

[proto.lab]

Hi FT and associates,

I am very interested in doing a group intro targeted at kids and parents. In my mind, we would get together and build kits, and discuss fundamentals, then the next weekend, have a flying day/ repair advice.

I want to have a veteran pilot serve as an instructor with a buddy box tied to their plane.

My questions would be, what are the considerations we would need to consider:

• Insurance
• safety
• Club/ hobbyshop participation
• FPV

How did you guys get started, and what were your experiences?

 

[CrashRecovery]

Welcome to the forum! Let us know where you are from and that more then likely will get you the local help you need

 

[proto.lab]

I knew I forgot something! duhh

Duluth MN,
www.protolab.us
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-0qRd6SyL6zde9hvAJD1FA

 

[makattack]

You might look at this Adult Education class scheduled at a local high school and taught by a club/executive member of the Charles River Radio Controllers:

http://www.lsrhs.net/sites/adulted/files/2014/01/LincolnSudbury_Fall14_99677.pdf

Relevant parts excerpted here:

LEARN TO FLY RADIO CONTROLLED MODEL AIRPLANES BRIAN RICKMAN
There are many types of model airplanes, ranging from tiny micro-models weighing less than one ounce to huge 1/3-scale models weighing 50+ pounds.
In this class you'll build a relatively small, simple plane that can be flown in a small space such as a gym or baseball field. The skills you learn in this
class can be applied to building and flying larger or more advanced models later. You'll use the first three class sessions to cut out and assemble your
airplane and install the electronics that make it controllable. The remaining class sessions will be spent flying the planes. We'll also spend some time
talking about the different types of planes that are available, where to buy model airplane building supplies, safety issues, local flying clubs, contests, and
other model airplane related events. Please bring a hot glue gun, a hobby knife, a metal ruler, and a cutting board. Kids are welcome with a parent for no
charge, if they make one plane together. Class will meet 3 classes inside and 3 classes outside.
6 SATURDAYS, STARTING SEPTEMBER 27 10AM-12 NOON ART STUDIO $130

 

[proto.lab]

Thanks makattack. I don't know if that was directed as me but we are in Minnesota. It appears they are in Massachusetts

 

[makattack]

Yes, just thinking you might use that as a model or even contact the instructor for ideas. Seems two days is ambitious.

 

[proto.lab]

Ok I get it thanks.

I was thinking 2 weekend days (sundays maybe). One day to build, next weekend to fly and repair. Would you have it all on the one day?

 

[makattack]

Actually, I was thinking two days isn't enough. That class I listed is 6x 2hr sessions (3 class room, 3 flying days). Unless you have a fairly high minimum level of experience (e.g. previous scratch build and RC flying experience), you may find that teaching people to fly is as demanding as teaching them to scratch build. I got a small experience with that as I buddy boxed a high school Summer intern with his first flight. Granted, I'm learning as an instructor myself and am fairly new to the hobby.

My experience at Flight Fest's build tent with a bunch of first time scratch builders showed that a lot of time was necessary. Granted, it was more of a self-directed experience for most, but even with the speed build kits, a generous vendor nearby (LazerToyz) willing to supply free parts, and a lot of experienced folks, people spent a whole day under the tent building their planes.

 

[Rc AirSquad]

Before anything, I suggest contacting the AMA for some advice, and forums.