Pilot Spotlight: Interview with Erin Wilkinson
Company: Bees360 Inc
Location: Houston, TX, USA
Tell us about yourself. Give our readers a personal introduction to you and what you do.
I was born and raised in Marietta, GA. I am acutely aware of my spirituality, have an infinite love for horses, and am absolutely infatuated with technology and photography!
What inspired you to begin flying drones? If you fly commercially, what made you want to enter the industry as a drone pilot?
I was inspired by my mentor and spiritual advisor, Pat, who told me, "The sky's the limit. Buy a drone." My love for tech and photography finally found a place to come together and form this awesome marriage.
What were you doing before you started flying drones, and what made you transition?
Before my life with drones, I was a horse jockey racing trainer. I sustained an injury that forced me out of that field and was seeking another way to better my life.
What drone(s) are you currently flying, and what drone accessories do you love?
I currently fly my Mavic 2 Pro and absolutely love my smart controller and blue propellers!
What is your favorite feature on your drone, and why?
My favorite feature is Point of Interest/Follow Me mode because it can make really fun videos.
What drone images are you most proud of and why?
The cabin photograph is very near and dear to my heart because the cabin belongs to my mentor Pat. I was elated and honored to be able to give back to him since he inspired me to get a drone in the first place.
Have you learned any valuable lessons from being in the drone industry that you can share with our female drone community?
The most valuable lesson I have learned is, "The possibilities with drones are only limited by your imagination. The sky is literally the limit."
Whether from a creative, commercial, or humanitarian perspective, tell us about the most memorable drone flight you've piloted thus far.
I would say that my most memorable drone flight probably would be piloting my first flight for Bees360 and the doors It has opened for me within the company. It took me almost an hour to do a 15-minute job, but I took my time to ensure the deliverable was perfect, and it paid off.
What excites you most about more women joining the drone industry and drone community?
I am most excited about traveling the world and tapping into my inner strength and limitless imagination. Also, I am excited about other women having the opportunity to travel the world, be their own boss., and envoke Girl Power!
Do you have any drone tips & tricks you can share with our audience?
I advise pilots to always maintain a line of sight. You'd be surprised how quickly you can crash. I wouldn't know… just saying. I also advise pilots to slow down. Take your time to observe your surroundings. This will show through with quality images and videos as well.
What's the best way for our readers to get in touch with you?
You can get in touch with me via email at Erin.Wilkinson@bees360.com.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you?
My colleague Dena Bector describes me as a Boss, but one of those bosses who is supportive, skillful, resilient, dependable, and always comes through!
About Erin Wilkinson
Erin started with Bees360, Inc in October 2020 as a 1099 drone pilot. Today, Erin works as the right-hand woman of Dena Bector, Senior Director of Operations of Bees360, wearing the title of Senior Operations Manager. Erin not only supports other Operation Managers but also provides real-time support to Bees360 pilots out in the field. Erin is also a part-time drone photographer specializing in the landscape for agriculture and farming.
Email: Erin.Wilkinson@bees360.com
