Students interact with police drones and body cameras during technology summit in Philadelphia.
On a sunny Thursday afternoon at Franklin Field on the University of Pennsylvania campus, approximately 250 students, ranging in age from 4 to 18, participated in the fifth annual X5 Teen Tech Summit. This event, organized by Grace 3 Technologies, drone manufacturer Skydio, and the Philadelphia Police Department, aimed to inspire interest in technology, robotics, and career opportunities in public safety among young participants, particularly those from underrepresented communities.
The summit featured a variety of interactive stations where students could engage with advanced technology. Attendees operated police drones, observed a robotic dog navigating the track, and learned about the use of artificial intelligence in police reports. Participants also played soccer with recreational drones, illustrating the evolving intersection of sports and technology.
The initiative was spearheaded by John Henry, founder of Grace 3 Technologies, who emphasized the importance of providing hands-on learning experiences for students, especially those from Black and brown backgrounds who may otherwise lack access to such opportunities. The event connected youth with organizations like the Police Athletic League (PAL) and the NOMO Foundation, broadening their exposure to careers in technology and public safety.
Notable figures in attendance included State Representative Jordan Harris and Debora Carrera, Philadelphia’s Chief Education Officer, both of whom expressed support for the initiative. Carrera underscored the significance of introducing children to drone technology, encouraging them to envision careers in aviation, engineering, and robotics.
Drones utilized by the Philadelphia Police Department were featured prominently during the event. Joe Warwick, Skydio’s program manager for major deployments, noted that the department is working to expand its fleet of drones, which can be deployed for public safety purposes, including responding to emergencies and assessing infrastructure.
While the summit was well-received by many, it also drew criticism. Privacy advocates, such as Albert Fox Cahn, Executive Director of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project, voiced concerns regarding the militarization of police technology and its implications for civil liberties. Cahn condemned the promoting of drones as toys for children, emphasizing the potential threats to safety and privacy posed by increased surveillance capabilities.
The event’s mixed reception highlights a growing debate over the role of technology in policing, particularly as communities grapple with issues of safety, privacy, and accountability. Amidst ongoing discussions, State Representative Harris emphasized the importance of leveraging technology for community safety while balancing the concerns that accompany its use.
As educational programs like the X5 Teen Tech Summit continue to evolve, they are poised to shape the future of public engagement with technology and its applications in daily life. These initiatives can serve as vital platforms for fostering curiosity, skills development, and understanding in the next generation.
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