Become aDrone Pilot

Becoming a Civil or Commercial Drone Pilot or Dispatcher means stepping into a world where each day presents new challenges and opportunities. It’s your chance to work with advanced technologies and play a pivotal role in operations that impact many industries. Whether it’s helping in rescue missions, assisting in agricultural monitoring, or filming breathtaking cinematic shots, your work will not just be about flying drones but making a difference with them.

• Fly drones for aerial photography, surveying, and monitoring.
• Use innovative technology in industries like film and agriculture.
• Capture stunning visuals and gather important data.
• Join a growing field with high demand for drone pilots.

Drone pilots and dispatchers operate and manage the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Pilots take the controls, flying drones for various tasks such as surveying, photography, and logistics. Dispatchers, on the other hand, focus on the logistics side, coordinating the missions, maintaining compliance with regulations, and ensuring all operations go as planned. Together, they ensure that drone technology is used safely and effectively.

Drone Pilots and Drone Dispatchers will work in both the private and government sectors. They’ll work with drones used in street cleaning, waste removal, air pollution monitors, and performing dangerous and routine tasks such as power line maintenance.

Drone Pilots remotely operate drones while they’re on the job so they can respond to any unforeseen circumstances. Drone Dispatchers might simply program a drone to perform a routine task and monitor it while the drone does all the work, only interfering in a worst case scenario. 

Drone Pilots and Drone Dispatchers will need to adhere to government regulations for drone operations and they’ll need to operate their drones with a mind towards human safety. 

A day in the life of a Commercial Drone Pilot

Pre-Flight Planning: Preparing flight plans, ensuring all equipment is in working order, and obtaining necessary permissions and clearances.

Flying Drones: Operating drones to capture images, videos, or other data. This can involve manual piloting or using pre-programmed flight paths.

Reviewing Drone Footage: Gathering and analysing data collected by drones, such as aerial photographs, videos, and sensor data.

Maintenance: Performing routine maintenance and repairs on drones to ensure they are safe and functional.

Compliance: Adhering to all regulations set by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and ensuring flights are conducted safely and legally.

Client Interaction: Communicating with clients to understand their needs and deliver high-quality results.

As a Civil or Commercial Drone Pilot or Dispatcher, you can work across many dynamic industries. Drones are versatile, and so are the career opportunities they offer. Here are a few sectors where your skills could take off:

• Film and Television
• Agriculture
• Emergency Services
• Environmental Monitoring
• Real Estate
• Logistics and Delivery

To excel as a Drone Pilot or Dispatcher, a range of skills, qualifications, and certifications are crucial. Here’s what you need to succeed in this dynamic field:

Skills and Qualifications

Attention to Detail and Spatial Awareness: A good attention span and strong spatial awareness are essential for planning precise flight paths, reading maps, and interpreting 3D displays.

Hand/Eye Coordination: Effective control of drones requires excellent hand/eye coordination to operate equipment safely and accurately.

Problem Solving and Communication: The ability to troubleshoot technical issues and communicate effectively with clients and regulatory bodies is vital for smooth operations.

Knowledge of Regulations: Understanding and adhering to Australian drone regulations, including airspace usage, is key to legal and safe flying.

Licensing and Education:

Certification: In Australia, a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) from CASA is mandatory for commercial drone operations. This includes completing approved training and passing theoretical and practical exams.

Educational Background: While a formal degree isn’t always necessary, courses in aviation, photography, or engineering can be beneficial. Specialised training programs in drone piloting enhance technical skills, including flight planning and data analysis.

By developing these skills and obtaining the necessary qualifications, you will be equipped to navigate a successful career as a Drone Pilot or Dispatcher.

Picking the right STEM subjects can give you a flying start in becoming a Civil or Commercial Drone Pilot or Dispatcher. Here are some subjects that will provide the knowledge base you need:

• Computer Science: Understanding the software that controls drones.
• Geography: Knowing terrain and navigation.
• Mathematics: For flight planning and technical adjustments.
• Physics: To grasp the principles of flight.
• Technology: Keeps you updated with the latest innovations.
• Engineering: Helps understand the mechanics of drones.

EXPLORE: https://student.scsa.wa.edu.au/

From orchestrating a fleet of drones to deliver packages in urban areas to conducting search and rescue missions in remote corners of the world, drone pilots and dispatchers are involved in some of the most cutting-edge aspects of technology today. You could be monitoring wildlife, supporting law enforcement, or even helping to manage disasters. Every task not only tests your skills but also puts you at the heart of innovation.

• Capture Stunning Aerial Footage: Fly over cities, beaches, or mountains to capture breathtaking aerial videos and photos for film projects, social media, or tourism campaigns.
• Monitor Wildlife and Nature Reserves: Use drones to monitor wildlife populations or track endangered species in remote locations, contributing to conservation efforts and protecting natural habitats.
• Inspect High-Risk Areas: Conduct inspections of high-risk areas like bridges, power lines, and wind turbines, using drones to safely identify maintenance needs without putting people in danger.
• Deliver Essential Supplies: Pilot drones to deliver medical supplies or emergency equipment to hard-to-reach locations, supporting disaster relief efforts and saving lives.
• Map New Territories: Use drones to create detailed 3D maps of unexplored terrains or archaeological sites, helping scientists and researchers discover new information about our world.
• Participate in Drone Racing: Compete in thrilling drone racing events, navigating complex courses at high speeds and showcasing your piloting skills in front of cheering crowds.

While the field is relatively new, there are several women making history in Australia known for their contributions to drone technology and operations:

• Dr. Catherine Ball
  • A well-known advocate for the use of drones in environmental science and humanitarian efforts, Dr. Ball is an entrepreneur, author, and futurist who uses drone technology to drive innovation in various sectors.
• Fiona Lake
  • An award-winning Australian photographer who has utilised drones extensively to capture stunning aerial images of rural landscapes and agricultural areas. Fiona is an advocate for safe and creative drone use in farming and has conducted drone photography workshops.
• Anita Van Dyke
  • A qualified aeronautical engineer, pilot, and author who has been involved in promoting the use of drone technology in innovative ways, including applications in agriculture and environmental monitoring.
• Jules McKeen
  • Founder of “She Flies,” an organisation dedicated to promoting and supporting women and girls in drone piloting, aviation, and STEM careers in Australia and beyond. Jules actively works to inspire and train the next generation of female drone pilots.

A successful Civil or Commercial Drone Pilot or Dispatcher not only has technical skills but also strong personal qualities:

• Meticulous
• Innovative
• Resilient
• Ethical
• Focused
• Patient

This career is for those who dream big and are ready to explore the skies. Are you ready to take flight in an exciting and evolving industry?

If becoming a professional Drone Pilot sounds like your dream career, there are various tertiary education pathways available. These programs range from undergraduate degrees to specialised certifications, each covering to different aspects of drone piloting, from technical skills to regulatory knowledge.

University Degrees

1. Bachelor of Aviation (Drone Applications)
   • Swinburne University of Technology – This program combines traditional aviation studies with a focus on drone operations. Students learn about airspace management, safety regulations, and drone technology. The course also covers practical flight training and drone applications in industries such as agriculture, environmental monitoring, and film production.
2. Bachelor of Information Technology (Networking and Security)
   • RMIT University – While not exclusively for drone piloting, this degree includes modules on cybersecurity and data management, both of which are crucial for drone operations, especially when handling sensitive data or working in security focused roles.
3. Bachelor of Engineering (Aerospace)
   • University of Sydney – Offers a solid foundation in aerodynamics, flight mechanics, and propulsion systems, providing drone pilots with an understanding of the principles governing flight and aircraft design. This is particularly useful for those interested in designing or engineering drone technology.

Specialised Certifications and Diplomas

1. Remote Pilot Licence (RePL)
   • Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA): The RePL is a mandatory certification for anyone wanting to operate drones commercially in Australia. The course includes theoretical and practical training, covering topics such as air law, navigation, meteorology, and flight planning. Training is available through various approved providers across Australia.
2. Diploma of Aviation (Remote Pilot)
   • TAFE Queensland: Provides comprehensive training in drone operations, including advanced piloting skills, safety protocols, and regulatory knowledge. This program is ideal for those looking to enter industries where drone technology is integral, such as surveying, agriculture, or emergency services.
3. Certificate III in Aviation (Remote Pilot – Visual Line of Sight)

TAFE NSW: This certificate focuses on basic and advanced drone piloting skills, including navigating complex airspaces and complying with CASA regulations. It also covers topics such as remote sensing, aerial mapping, and data analysis.

When preparing for a future among the clouds, combining different fields of study can give you a unique advantage. For instance, studying both Computer Science and Environmental Science can prepare you to use drones for ecological monitoring. Or, combining courses in Engineering and Business could help you launch a drone startup, managing everything from technical development to company operations. 

Interdisciplinary studies allow you to tailor your education to fit the exact career path you want to pursue in the drone industry.

Degrees and Other Types of Learning: University degrees provide a solid theoretical foundation, but the world of drones also values hands-on experience and specialised training. Certifications in drone operation, for example, can be complemented with studies in logistics or emergency management to broaden your career opportunities. Combining traditional degrees with certifications or workshops in drone technology and operations can make your skills more robust and your career prospects brighter.

Blending Technology and Practice: The field of drone technology is evolving, and staying ahead means being at the intersection of innovation and practical application. Courses that blend tech studies with modern scenarios, like internships with tech companies or practical drone flying modules, are incredibly beneficial. This approach not only enhances your learning experience but also prepares you to meet the industry’s demands head-on

Studying to become a Drone Pilot or Dispatcher, you’ll explore a world where technology meets strategy. Your studies will cover key areas like the principles of flight, drone navigation systems, air traffic regulations, and safety protocols. You’ll also learn about the ethical use of drones, how to plan and execute missions, and how to analyse data collected during flights. Plus, expect to get plenty of hands-on training with various types of drones, learning to troubleshoot and solve problems on the fly!

Getting your hands on the controls and working directly in the field can teach you things that textbooks can’t touch. Internships with drone manufacturers, volunteering in drone-operated conservation projects, or part-time roles in logistics companies can provide invaluable experience. These opportunities allow you to apply your knowledge, gain practical skills, and build a network of professional contacts in the industry.

Not everyone takes the university route, and in the world of drones, practical experience often trumps classroom learning. Here are two main alternatives:

Microlearning and Online Courses: Platforms like Droneit and Aviation Australia offer specialised courses in drone piloting, operations, and even specific applications like aerial photography or thermal imaging. These courses are often designed by industry professionals and provide a flexible, practical learning option.

On-the-Job Experience or Apprenticeships: Some companies offer trainee roles where you can learn directly on the job. Or you could check out Drone Pilot Virtual Work Experience provided by Credly. This experience can be crucial, giving you a deeper understanding of the day-to-day demands and challenges in drone operations.

The following sectors are known for providing great opportunities for Drone Pilots.

Western Australia

Mining Industry

• Utilise drones for aerial surveys and monitoring of mining operations.
• Assist in mapping terrain and identifying potential sites for exploration.

Agriculture

• Conduct crop monitoring and assessment using drones equipped with advanced sensors.
• Help farmers increase efficiency and productivity by providing real-time data on crop health and irrigation needs.

Australia

Coastal Surveillance

• Work with coastal authorities to monitor marine environments and wildlife populations.
• Use drones for coastline mapping and identifying potential environmental threats.

Environmental Conservation

• Support conservation efforts by using drones for wildlife monitoring and habitat assessment.
• Assist in tracking endangered species and monitoring deforestation or illegal logging activities.

Entertainment Industry

• Join film and television production teams to capture breathtaking aerial shots.
• Use drones equipped with high-definition cameras for filming movies, commercials, and documentaries.

Global

Drone Delivery Services

• Work with logistics companies to develop and implement drone delivery solutions.
• Deliver packages, medical supplies, and emergency aid to remote or inaccessible areas.

Urban Planning and Development

• Assist city planners in mapping urban landscapes and monitoring construction projects.
• Use drones for traffic management, infrastructure inspection, and disaster response.

Disaster Management

• Support emergency response teams in disaster zones by providing aerial reconnaissance and situational awareness.
• Assist in search and rescue operations and delivering supplies to affected areas.

In addition to these specific sectors, the demand for skilled drone pilots and dispatchers is growing across various industries, including law enforcement, telecommunications, and scientific research. With the right training and expertise, you can carve out a fulfilling career path in this exciting and rapidly expanding field.

Conclusion

A career as a Commercial Drone Pilot is both exciting and versatile, offering opportunities to work in various industries and apply cutting-edge technology. 

If you are interested in aviation, technology, and innovative applications, this career path provides a unique opportunity to develop your STEM skills now while they are in high demand. By pursuing your STEM education, obtaining certification, and gaining relevant experience, you could be remotely rocking the skies as a Commercial Drone Pilot.