What Makes Drone Training Successful: Lessons from 10 years in the Field

Photo credit: First Nations Technology Council, Drone Stewardship Program (Prince George, 2025)

Drones can be transformative for Indigenous communities and organizations. There are so many useful applications including environmenal monitoring, search and rescue, mapping, wildlife management, tourism, community outreach, and more. However, while drones themselves are becoming increasingly accessible and easier-than-ever to fly, many aspects of drone use remain complex, including understanding rules and regulations around their use, planning and implementing safe operations, and collecting and processing collected data. Successful integration hinges on thoughtful goal setting, planning, and delivery. At Overstory Mapping & Research, after almost 10 years helping others integrate drones witnin their communities and organizations, we’ve learned that the most impactful training programs share some key attributes:

Setting Clear Goals that are Aligned to Community Needs

Success starts with defining the community’s goals. Is certification the priority, or is it about mastering practical applications for local projects? Training should reflect these goals, whether it’s for environmental monitoring, cultural site mapping, or general operational skills.

Customized Training for Existing Capacity

Tailoring the training to the participants’ existing capacity is crucial. If there’s a mix of beginners and experienced pilots, consider running separate sessions, one for foundational skills and another for advanced certifications. A one-size-fits-all approach can leave some behind or hold others back.

Identifying Realistic and Achievable Pathways

Set realistic expectations. If advanced certification is the goal, ensure participants have the baseline skills first. Sometimes, it’s better to offer incremental steps, starting with foundational training before diving into complex operations.

Incorporating Fun and Engaging Methods

Learning sticks best when it’s fun. Incorporate games, group activities, and hands-on flight time as much as possible. This not only keeps interest high but also builds camaraderie and confidence.

Small Class Sizes and Good Facilities

Small classes allow for individual attention and practical flying time. A good training space has both a classroom environment and nearby space for safe flight practice, making the learning experience seamless and immersive.

Sharing Inspiring Examples

Include case studies and examples of how other communities have used drones. Seeing real-world applications inspires participants and offers lessons they can apply in their own contexts.

Leadership, Having a Long-term Plan, and Keeping the Momentum Going

Perhaps most importantly, successful drone training should be embedded within a broader vision. Training should be seen as one step in a longer journey, it's not the finish line. Leadership plays a critical role in maintaining momentum after training ends by supporting continued learning, developing workflows and standard operating procedures, and ensuring access to tools and resources. Keep those drones flying! Without a plan for what comes next, the energy generated by a well-run training can quickly fade.

By focusing on these elements, we ensure that drone training is not only effective but also empowering, equipping communities and organizations to lead their own drone operations with confidence.