Drone careers are soaring right alongside the technology itself, opening doors in industries like agriculture, construction, public safety, filmmaking, mapping, and environmental science. Whether you’re piloting drones for aerial photography, inspecting bridges, analyzing crops, or managing fleets for big companies, there’s a growing demand for skilled operators and data analysts who can turn drone flights into actionable insights. It’s a field where tech-savvy, hands-on people can literally take their work to new heights.
“Futures in Flight” is where tomorrow’s drone careers take off. Beyond piloting, there’s big demand for AI specialists, cybersecurity pros, environmental analysts, maintenance techs, and legal or regulatory experts. From agriculture to logistics, industries need smart people to keep drones flying safely and efficiently. Pay ranges from solid entry-level salaries to six-figure incomes for top specialists. Bottom line: “Futures in Flight” is your launchpad if you want a future where your work literally soars.
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.