LIFT taps Puerto Rico engineering students for defense drone initiative
LIFT, the advanced manufacturing institute, has launched a drone technology program from its Puerto Rico facility in collaboration with students from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus (known as RUM).
The program gives engineering students practical experience in the full design-build-test cycle, focusing on lightweight drone attachments for defense and environmental monitoring. Participants are using Arduino microcontrollers and 3D printing tools to develop sensor systems tailored to port security, air quality tracking and supply chain monitoring.
“This effort underscores LIFT’s commitment to strengthening the U.S. manufacturing and defense innovation base by investing in regional talent, driving innovative technologies, and fostering collaboration between academia, industry and government,” said Robert Shaner, chief Education and Workforce Development officer at LIFT.
Supported by the Department of Defense’s Manufacturing Technology Program, the initiative includes technical workshops, prototyping and flight testing. It is also being developed in partnership with the Puerto Rico Drone Academy to help build a skilled aerospace workforce.
