From Drone Hobbyist to Pro: A Guide for Women to Transition into a Career in Drones
Drones have become ubiquitous in modern society, with applications ranging from aerial photography to surveying and mapping, search and rescue, and even deliveries. As a result, drone-related careers are on the rise, and women are increasingly entering this exciting field. If you're a drone hobbyist and want to transition into a career in drones, here's a guide to help you get started:
Get Certified: If you're serious about a career in drones, you'll need to get certified. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires that all drone pilots have a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. This certificate is obtained by passing a knowledge test that covers topics such as airspace, weather, and drone operations. The test costs $160 and can be taken at an FAA-approved testing center.
Build Your Skills: In addition to certification, you'll need to develop your skills as a drone pilot. Start by practicing with a beginner drone, then move on to more advanced models as you become more experienced. Also, consider taking courses or workshops to learn about drone technology, aerial photography, and videography, as well as drone regulations.
Join a Community: Joining a community of drone enthusiasts can be a great way to connect with others who share your passion for drones. You can join online forums, Facebook groups, and local drone clubs to network with other drone pilots, share tips and experiences, and find out about job opportunities.
Explore Career Opportunities: There are many career opportunities in the drone industry, including drone pilot, aerial photographer or videographer, surveyor, mapping specialist, search and rescue specialist, and more. Research different careers in the field and identify the ones that interest you the most.
Create a Portfolio: A portfolio of your drone work can be a great way to showcase your skills and experience to potential employers. Include examples of aerial photography, videography, and mapping projects you've worked on, as well as any awards or certifications you've earned.
Find a Mentor: Finding a mentor who has experience in the drone industry can be invaluable as you transition into a career in drones. They can provide guidance on building your skills, finding job opportunities, and navigating the industry.
Apply for Jobs: Once you've built your skills and created a portfolio, it's time to start applying for jobs. Look for job postings on job boards and company websites, and don't be afraid to reach out to companies directly to inquire about job opportunities. Check out this article to learn more.
Hear it from a professional woman drone pilot, Taylor Mitcham-
Beginner Drones for Women
If you're just starting as a drone hobbyist, many beginner drones on the market are perfect for women. DJI Mavic Mini3 is one of the lightest and most compact drones on the market, weighing only 249 grams. This makes it easy to transport and fly, even for beginners. It comes with a high-quality camera that can capture 12-megapixel photos and 2.7K video with a number of stability and safety features, such as GPS positioning, altitude hold, and obstacle avoidance sensors. These features help to ensure that the drone stays stable and safe during flight, reducing the risk of crashes and other accidents.
In conclusion, transitioning from a drone hobbyist to a professional drone pilot requires certification, skill development, networking, and career exploration. With dedication and hard work, women can pursue rewarding careers in the drone industry.
Akshata is a writer based in Bengaluru, India. She is known for her deep passion for drones and her ability to overcome challenges in this rapidly-evolving industry. She has spent countless hours researching and experimenting with various drone models, honing her skills as a pilot and innovator. She continues to inspire others with her passion for innovation and her commitment to pushing the boundaries of what's possible with drone technology.
