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By transforming military experience into cutting-edge drone expertise, Vets to Drones is looking to equip Veterans with the tools to thrive in a dynamic and emerging tech sector.
The drone industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with the Federal Aviation Administration forecasting over 850,000 commercial drones in operation by 2028. From precision agriculture and infrastructure inspection to public safety and cinematography, drones are revolutionizing industries and creating a pressing need for skilled professionals.
Veterans, with their proven discipline, adaptability and leadership, are ideally suited to meet this demand. Vets to Drones harnesses these strengths, offering a clear pathway to rewarding careers across the American drone industry.
The program provides Veterans with comprehensive, tailored support designed to ensure success, including:
- FAA Part 107 certification training: Expert-led courses prepare Veterans for the commercial drone-pilot license, a cornerstone credential for professional unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operations.
- Practical drone experience: Hands-on training with first-person view (FPV) drones, enterprise systems and industry-standard platforms that build real-world proficiency.
- Career transition support: Resume workshops, interview coaching and connections to Veteran-friendly employers who streamline the journey to employment.
- Community engagement: Workshops, career fairs and “fly days” create a vibrant network, fostering camaraderie and collaboration among Veterans and industry professionals.
Vets to Drones welcomes Veterans at all stages of their journey—whether recently transitioned or retired, from aviation or ground roles. With programs spanning beginner to advanced levels, participants can pursue opportunities in diverse fields like logistics, emergency response, defense contracting or aerial surveying. This flexibility ensures every Veteran can carve out a meaningful role in the drone economy.
Founded by Veterans for Veterans, the program’s robust network connects participants with hiring partners eager to leverage Veterans’ unique skills and perspectives. By fostering confidence, purpose and a sense of belonging, Vets to Drones helps Veterans navigate the civilian workforce with the same resilience they brought to their service.
“Vets to Drones is about more than flying drones—it’s about empowering Veterans to lift themselves to new heights,” said David Crabtree, Navy Veteran, UAS industry advocate and Vets to Drones director of operations. “Drones aren’t just tools, they’re the future of innovation, safety and exploration. As technology accelerates, so does our ability to empower communities, train the next generation and redefine what’s possible. I’m honored to lead operations at Vets to Drones, ensuring Veterans have the skills to soar in this dynamic industry.”
Veterans ready to embark on their next mission can visit Vet to Drones to explore training opportunities, upcoming events and career resources. Employers and industry partners are encouraged to collaborate in advancing Veteran-led innovation.
The drone revolution is taking flight, and Veterans are at the helm.
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This post contains jobs for the week of June 16, 2025. Each week, we post relevant and timely listings as we receive them, and for the locations listed.
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I was scheduled to attend the seminar but when I attempted to open the app, there was no connection. Is there a phone number that I can call to get started with this course?
Here’s an idea. Rather than publish one local company in the Carolinas, with limited space availability, why not do some digging and come up with a list of organizations across the country who offer similar programs? This way, Veterans aren’t let down once they reach that organization’s site. I plan to look into the Pinellas County area myself. Good luck, everyone.
Who are your drone education partners in the Spokane Washington area? Love to pass this along the Veterans in my area.
I am a long, long time veteran. I have a drone and fly it often. I actually love flying it. Who wouldn’t? So, I am a deputy sheriff in Tennessee with an office that has a drone. There are only two Deputies licensed to fly it. Is this a course that would aid me in assisting our Sheriff’s Office? Is this something that you offer for us old(er) veterans and those just out of the military with flying experience?
I have read the part 107 book twice but the distance to travel and arrange the test is pretty inconvenient to my location. I am in the middle of nowhere.
I notice many comments on availability issues. Is this restricted?
Hello whomever,
I have acquired a couple possessions, in witch I have gotten felonies for. Does that hender my opportunity to take and utilize a career in this field. Please let me know
Tried to set date no May or June dates for Drone school .Does this program exist ???
I’m extremely interested in your vets to drones program, however, I checked availability on everyday from now until the end of August and there was nothing available. Does that mean something is wrong with my computer your website or is there nothing available?
Received the email notification a day later, so not sure how to enroll for things like this on time.
i tried setting time/date but software for drone training would not let me.
Would be very interested in Vets to Drones program, please post any future dates the program will be offered. Unable to take advantage of the current program being offered due to personal as well as VA (medical) commitments. Thank you! Combat (USMC) Veteran
Is this still available? I realize it is by appointment only for the call, but did it really fill up so fast that there are zero spots? Pointless to have on current email/ad if so.
This sounds really promising! Unfortunately, you have to schedule a live meeting with someone from their organization to get started, and they have nothing available. The calendar online is empty all through August, and nada.
Any plans to expand into surface, subsurface, and ground drones
I clicked every day thru to July to take the free one hour seminar. Nothing. Gotta feeling this is just filler for the VA newsletter.
The link doesn’t work
I am a veteran and agricultural drone pilot and flight instructor for heavy drone operations for drones over 55 #. I also have experience in mapping for agricultural multi spectral field analysis. If I can help with any presentations or teachings please let me know!
Jeff, I am interested. Sincerely, George Alvarado Jr, Retired
As an amateur photographer and former student pilot I look forward to combining these two skills
Would my son (age 26) be able to take advantage of this VET Drone training program?