Advancing Indigenous Drone Stewardship with the First Nations Technology Council

Earlier this month, I had the privilege of traveling to Prince George to join the First Nations Technology Council’s Drone Stewardship Council for the final week of their training program, the first in-person session of the course in quite a few years. It was an incredible gathering of Indigenous youth from across British Columbia, all bringing passion, curiosity, and vision to the world of drone technology.

The focus for the week was on advanced certification with Transport Canada, including in-person flight reviews and practical skill development. I’m also proud to share that I am now a certified Flight Reviewer, something that made this week especially meaningful.

Students wrapped up their Capstone projects with inspiring creativity, exploring innovative ways drones can be applied in their communities for mapping, environmental monitoring, cultural documentation, and more. We even had the opportunity to visit the tower at Prince George airport, courtesy of Nav Canada. The energy and excitement during the week were contagious. It lifted my heart to know these learners will return to their communities, jobs, and schools with new technical skills and ideas that will help shape the future of Indigenous innovation in drone technology.

A huge thank you to the First Nations Technology Council, the amazing Maxime Lapierre of Flytbox, PGNAETA for hosting us, and most of all, the students themselves. You made this week unforgettable.