Drone careers in the United States are soaring, with opportunities expanding across industries like agriculture, public safety, construction, filmmaking, and environmental science. From FAA-certified drone pilots and aerial surveyors to data analysts and UAS maintenance techs, the demand for skilled professionals is growing fast. As drone technology becomes more embedded in everyday operations, career paths are opening not just for operators, but also for educators, engineers, and innovators shaping the future of flight. Whether you're entering the workforce or upskilling for a tech-forward job, the drone industry offers a dynamic runway for long-term growth.
Because they’re faster, safer, and smarter. Drones give us eyes in the sky, letting us monitor crops, inspect bridges, find missing people, and protect the environment—all without putting humans at risk. In a world that demands more data, speed, and precision, drones deliver.
The FAA Part 107 certification and the TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test) serve different purposes for different types of drone pilots. The Part 107 certification is required for commercial drone operations in the United States and involves passing a comprehensive knowledge exam that covers topics such as airspace classifications, weather, regulations, and emergency procedures. It is designed for individuals who intend to use drones for business, professional services, or any non-recreational purpose. In contrast, the TRUST test is a free, simple, online safety test required for recreational drone pilots. It focuses on basic safety guidelines and regulations for flying drones as a hobbyist. While the Part 107 certification is administered through FAA-approved testing centers and must be renewed every two years, the TRUST test is taken through FAA-approved online providers and only needs to be completed once.
The FAA TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test) is a required safety test for all recreational drone pilots in the United States. Mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), TRUST is designed to ensure that hobbyist drone operators understand the basic rules and safety guidelines for flying unmanned aircraft. Anyone flying drones for fun must complete the test before taking to the skies. It’s free, available online through FAA-approved test administrators, and takes only about 30 minutes to complete. Once finished, pilots receive a certificate that they must carry with them during all recreational drone flights.
In this comprehensive class, students dive into the fundamentals of becoming a certified drone pilot through engaging, real-world content that mirrors FAA expectations. They start with an overview of the certification process and move into key topics like drone laws, airspace rules, and safe operating practices. Students gain hands-on skills in reading FAA sectional charts and navigating complex airspace classifications. They also explore how to fly safely near airports, interpret weather data like METARs and TAFs, and handle night operations and in-flight emergencies. It's a rigorous, safety-first course designed to prepare future pilots for confident, compliant drone missions.