My background

This blog is intended to look at the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS, UAV, RPV, etc.) industry in the U.S. and the current and future job prospects for entry level graduates and professionals.

I will start off with my background, how I learned about the industry, and why I chose to be a part of it. Ever since I can remember, I wanted to fly airplanes. I started taking flying lessons when I was 16 and joined the Civil Air Patrol as a cadet. I graduated from the Civil Air Patrol's Flight Academy in 2005 where I had my first solo. I went on to attend the University of North Dakota and began majoring in Commercial Aviation. My intent was to fly for the airlines.

Between my sophomore and junior year at UND, I heard about a new degree program in the making; unmanned aircraft systems operations. At first I brushed it off thinking it would never catch on or have any potential. By the middle of my junior year I was beginning to see the awesome potential in this relatively new industry and decided to take the UAS intro course to see what it was all about. After learning about unmanned aircraft and their potential to impact not only the aviation economy but the entire economy of the county, I knew I had to be a part of it. I officially changed majors during my senior year, which meant I would have to spend an extra semester at school. I knew it would be worth it.

Now I am an honors graduate with a B.S. degree in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations from the University of North Dakota.  I also hold a commercial pilot certificate with multi-engine and instrument ratings.

I am excited to explore the possibilities of the UAS industry and share my findings here. 

I am actively seeking career opportunities and welcome any referrals.

PLEASE share your story by leaving a comment. I would love to hear from you.