Field notes

Inspiring Hawaiʻi's Future Innovators: A Day at Lightning Labs

December 19, 2025 · PTCG

Students and faculty from Ewa Makai Middle School and James Campbell High School during their site visit to the 25th Infantry Division Lightning Labs at Schofield Barracks

We are proud to have partnered with the 25th Infantry Division Lightning Labs to host an incredible educational site visit for the drone teams and faculty of Ewa Makai Middle School and James Campbell High School.

At PTCG, our mission is to strengthen the bridge between industry, academia, and the military. Seeing 50 of Hawaiʻi's future leaders engage directly with military technologists at Schofield Barracks was a powerful reminder of what happens when we invest in our youth.

Highlights from the day included:

  • Cutting-Edge Tech: Students explored UAS design, 3-D manufacturing, and Geospatial Intelligence Systems (GIS).
  • Real-World Context: Learning about UAV operations and use cases specifically within the Indo-Pacific Area of Responsibility.
  • Mentorship: Students shared a sponsored lunch with Lightning Lab leadership and soldiers, discussing pathways in STEM and national service.

A huge thank you to CW3 Aaron Dunson and the entire 25th Lightning Labs team for opening your doors and sharing your expertise. Special thanks to Keao Cockett (Ewa Makai) and LCDR(Ret) Harrison DePondicchello (James Campbell High) for their dedication to their students' aviation pathways.

Together, we are fostering the resilience and innovation that will define Hawaiʻi's future.

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A day at Lightning Labs

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