Drones help Michigan 4-H youth discover agriculture, aviation careers - Brownfield Ag News
By Nicole Heslip
October 2, 2026
A 4-H program coordinator in Michigan shares how growing interest in drone technology is opening new avenues for young people to explore careers in both aviation and agriculture.
"I think 4-H has been a huge impact... teaching kids what kind of careers they can go into, that the sky’s the limit," says Sue Beerens from Michigan 4-H's Missaukee County chapter.
Beerens recently spearheaded one of the state's first aviation-focused 4-H clubs and, in partnership with Wexford County 4-H and a local airport, launched the Future Flyers Aviation Camp to showcase connections between aviation, agriculture, and technology.
"All these things come back to the kids thinking outside the box and how can they use this technology in the future to make decisions," Beerens says. "When they’re out in the workforce, they’re making decisions on how much do I spray, where can I go, what fields fit the drone aspect?"
Volunteers have been crucial for these programs' success.
Tags: 4-H club members, 4-H projects, 4H, ag careers, ag drones, aviation, drones, Michigan, Michigan 4-H, youth