While it’s important for individuals do their part to care for our community, corporations have the ability and responsibility to make an even greater contribution to environmental sustainability. In this spirit, Insitu supports education, community service and environmental sustainability.

Education

As a leader in the unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) industry with strong and dedicated commitment to community, education and technology, Insitu is a partner with the AUVSI Foundation and other synergistic local technology companies and organizations to inspire the next generation to pursue education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Insitu and our partners are demonstrating leadership and innovation by pioneering an aerial robotics program leveraging the STEM disciplines.

Roboflight Academy

Insitu’s Roboflight Academy is an aerial robotics summer program designed to inspire high school students to pursue degrees and careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The Roboflight Academy provides the students with an opportunity to learn about robotics from a software and aeronautical design perspective, interact and mentor with current Insitu engineers, and build and fly unmanned aircraft. Students are exposed to basic aerodynamic principles, unmanned aircraft system fundamentals and programming through a combination of academic lessons, demonstrations and hands-on activities.

This initiative aims to get students excited about the aerial robotics work they will accomplish, which will in turn encourage the students to explore STEM disciplines. The real-world challenges they face and skills they attain will help them explore careers in engineering, aerospace, aerial obotics and UAS.

Students in their junior or senior years who are interested in this program should have a basic interest, knowledge and skill set regarding programming, mechanics and math, and prior experience in robotics.

For further information, contact contactus@insitu.com

To learn more about opportunities to experience fun, hands-on robotics activities, visit the AUVSI Foundation.

FIRST Robotics

Insitu has sponsored and provided employee volunteers for FIRST Robotics, a program that engages kids in the design, construction and competition of robots.

The nationwide organization called FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) inspires young people to be science and technology leaders by engaging them in programs that build engineering skills and inspire innovation.

State by state, FIRST implements a series of robotics competitions for students from kindergarten through 12th grade.

With the help of other robotics enthusiasts in the Columbia River Gorge, Insitu helps connect mentors with teams. Employees in all areas of engineering, project management, business, finance and marketing are encouraged to get involved.

For further information, contact CommunityRelations@insitu.com

Environmental sustainability

In fall 2009, Insitu started an environmental management initiative with the goal of designing and implementing a framework for sustainable business practices. This process culminated in an initial assessment of disposal and energy consumption practices, accompanied with management designs to further environmental success. Through future partnerships with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's WasteWise and ENERGY STAR programs, Insitu plans to formalize its commitment to environmental responsibility.

Past efforts have also resulted in establishment of a recycling program, double-sided printing practices and a company-wide Lights Off! campaign, and development of a carbon footprint analysis that resulted in the purchase of 100 percent renewable energy Green Tags.

Community service

Employee volunteers manage a variety of community-based projects, including electronics recycling, gift giving for community children, food drives, environmental education and cleanup, and fundraising for human services organizations. We are delighted to be a member of the Columbia River Gorge community, and we value opportunities to give back.

For further information, contact CommunityRelations@insitu.com.