Pilot Spotlight: Interview with Lexie Janson
Tell us about yourself.
I am just an everyday girl who had an idea and decided to try it. I couldn't be any happier with how it all turned out, but it was a lot of hard work - always pay back. Now, I can easily say that I am a drone pilot, drone racing pilot, public speaker, social media influencer and a public personality in a drone world. I am happy to be able to make a difference.
What inspired you to begin flying drones?
I started flying drones back in 2014 at the end of the year. I was also introduced to FPV (First Person View), and I fell completely in love. A friend of mine showed me it just once and I felt like a bird... flying in the sky but staying on the ground. Up until today, it is the most amazing feeling to just put the goggles on and cut off myself from the world around.
What were you doing before you started flying drones, and what made you make the transition?
I was (and still am) a programmer and web developer.
What drone (s) are you currently flying, and what drone accessories do you love?
I am flying a DJI Mavic Air, and a couple of self-made racing drones. My favorite accessory is my pair of goggles, FatShark HDO.
What is your favorite feature on your drone and why?
The possibility of going 100kmh and doing acrobatics. The things I can do with my drone are amazing.
What drone images are you proud of and why?
I am proud of every video I make. I am doing my best to make them better every time I upload.
Have you learned any valuable lessons from being in the drone industry that you can share with our female drone community?
The world is created by 99% of amazing people and 1% of the trouble makers. Don't let this 1% ruin your day. People are amazing, helpful and nice in this industry. Also sharing knowledge is a key!
Whether it's from a creative, commercial or humanitarian perspective, tell us about the most memorable drone flight you have piloted thus far.
I think every flight of mine is memorable. I have met so many people, made so many friendships and seen so many amazing things from way other perspective. It's too hard to choose a favorite.
What would you say to women and girls about the drone industry to spark their interest in getting involved?
What I am doing since 2014 - and I have seen working best - is just to show up on drone events and conferences, showing that girls DO IT. And do it good. Telling girls that "You can do it too" and showing them 30 guys aged 20/30 is not sending a message. The best thing we can do is just to be, have fun and share our love with the world.
What excites you most about more women joining the drone industry?
Wider group of people always means more ideas. Also, I'm hoping that with the growing number of girls and women in drones we will see less of really weird comments and pictures that we are struggling with now.
Do you have any drone tips & tricks you can share with our audience?
It doesn't matter what people tell You. If you are "too tall", "too short", "woman", "man" or whatever. Drones and FPV are for everyone regardless of age, gender, nationality and beliefs. And if someone tells you that you can't do something (doesn’t have to be connected with drones) tell them "I can, and I will. Watch me."
What's the best way for our readers to get in touch with you?
Message me on my social media (maionhigh everywhere) or send me an email on lexie@maionhigh.com.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you?
I am extremely happy to help and support anyone on my way, SO don't be afraid to leave me a message :)
My name is Lexie, and I am 26 years old. I started flying drones back when I was in university studying Landscape Architecture, but after some time, I moved towards IT and programming, which is my current job along with drones.
I live in Germany with my husband, who I met on a drone event. Together, we are travelling all over the world with our drones, sharing the love and passion to it. I am also a content creator and owner of a YouTube channel, MaiOnHigh, and for 2 years I have been really actively promoting drones at conferences, events and during my travels.
I am a German champion in drone racing (women category), and I was honored with a Rotor Riot Medallion award for extraordinary work for drones.
