How do you prepare students for high-demand careers in the drone industry? At the CTE National Conference, we spoke with Robert from Georgetown ISD, a district with a three-year CTE drone program. His students earn their Part 107 commercial pilot’s license and work directly with employers in real estate, solar energy, and even the Department of Transportation.
Robert explains that the most employable skill a pilot can have is manual control. When GPS or sensors fail in the field—a common real-world problem—employers need pilots who can confidently recover valuable equipment. This “stick time” provides students a significant competitive advantage in the job market, proving their ability beyond automated flight.
For educators looking to build a similar program, the process can be daunting. Robert highlights how Rocket Drones removes the barriers to entry, providing a clear, structured path that eliminates the need for teachers to build a curriculum from the ground up. This testimonial offers a look into what a successful school drone program looks like and the skills that truly matter for student employability.