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Drone Spraying

Droneworks Workforce Development:  Launching Careers in Drone Technology

The Droneworks Workforce Development Program equips youth, young adults, and adults with the real-world skills, certifications, and workforce readiness needed to enter the rapidly growing drone technology industry. Through expert training, FAA Part 107 preparation, hands-on flight labs, and industry partnerships, participants gain the technical and professional experience required for high-demand careers.

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Drone technology is one of the fastest-growing fields in the world, and this program ensures our community is prepared to lead it.

What is Droneworks Workforce Development?

Droneworks bridges the gap between interest and career opportunity by providing participants with a structured pathway into the drone industry. From mastering flight controls to learning federal regulations, students gain a comprehensive foundation in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

 

Program highlights include:

  • Hands-on drone flight training with industry-grade equipment

  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate preparation

  • Safety, airspace, & regulation training

  • Workforce readiness sessions

  • Career exposure to drone industry professionals

  • Real mission simulations in aerial photography, surveying, and inspection

  • Resume and professional development guidance

Whether participants pursue drones for careers, entrepreneurship, or advanced aviation pathways, Droneworks delivers industry-relevant training that opens doors.

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Training Hours Included

Droneworks typically provides 15–25 hours of structured training, including:

 

Technical Training (10–15 hours):

  • Drone anatomy & technology

  • Flight controls and maneuvers

  • Airframe systems

  • GPS-based flight

  • Sensor & camera operations

  • Data collection fundamentals

 

Hands-On Flight Labs (5–8 hours):

  • Takeoff & landing

  • Hovering, orbiting, and waypoint navigation

  • Emergency procedures

  • Precision flying

  • Real industry-style flight missions

  • Drone mapping or photography basics

 

FAA Part 107 Ground School (10 hours avg):

  • Regulations

  • Airspace classification

  • Weather

  • Loading & performance

  • Emergency procedures

  • Crew resource management

  • Part 107 exam prep

Total learning hours vary based on cohort, skill level, and funding.

 

Who It’s For

Droneworks is open to:

  • Youth & adults 

  • Adults seeking workforce training or new opportunities

  • Students interested in aviation, technology, engineering, or hands-on learning

  • Individuals seeking certification for professional drone work

  • Underserved communities seeking career pathways

  • Future entrepreneurs looking to build drone-based businesses

No prior drone experience needed.

 

Workforce Pathways & Career Opportunities

Drone technology is used across dozens of industries. After completing Droneworks, students can pursue:

 

Career Pathways:

  • Aerial photography & videography

  • Drone mapping & surveying

  • Construction inspection

  • Public safety & emergency response - See in action: Click Here!

  • Agriculture & crop analysis

  • Real estate marketing

  • Infrastructure inspection

  • Environmental monitoring

  • Delivery/logistics (emerging field)

  • Drone entrepreneurship

 

Starting Industry Pay:

  • Entry-level drone operators: $18–$35/hr

  • Specialized operators: $40–$75/hr

  • Contract pilots & entrepreneurs: $500–$2,000+ per project

Droneworks is a launchpad for meaningful, modern, tech-forward careers.

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Program Costs & Why Support Matters

The cost of high-quality drone training can be a barrier for many families.

 

Typical Drone Training Cost (without UAS):

  • $149–$1,500 for ground school & flight labs

  • $300–$1,200 for equipment

  • $175 FAA testing fee

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Estimated Total:

$1,275–$2,875 per student

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UAS reduces these costs by:

  • Providing drones and equipment during training

  • Covering training fees through sponsorships

  • Partnering with certified instructors

  • Subsidizing Part 107 exam prep

  • Providing equitable access for underserved communities

Your support ensures that cost never stands between a young person and a life-changing opportunity.

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What Participants Gain

 

Students leave with:

  • Hands-on drone flight experience

  • Industry-relevant technical skills

  • Preparedness for the FAA Part 107 exam

  • Career guidance & professional development

  • Confidence operating drones safely & skillfully

  • Connections to drone professionals & employers

  • Eligibility for advanced aviation/STEM opportunities

Participants may also build professional portfolios using their flight missions and project work.

             

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need to own a drone?
A: No, we provide all necessary equipment during sessions.

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Q: Is prior aviation or tech experience required?
A: Not at all, our curriculum starts with the basics and builds your confidence step-by-step.

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Q: What’s the cost to join?
A: Fees vary by session. Need-based scholarships are available.

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Q: How hard is the FAA Part 107 test?
A: With practice and instruction, students perform well. The program prepares them thoroughly.

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Q: Will I get to fly drones?
A: Absolutely. You’ll gain supervised hands-on experience throughout the program.

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Q: Can a 14-year-old get certified?

A: They can train now, but must be 16 to take the exam. Training early improves success.

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Get Involved

Students & Adults: 

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Educators & Partners: 

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Donors & Sponsors: 

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