How Vets To Drones Is Helping Veterans Reclaim Purpose Through Drone Technology
When military veterans complete their service, they often encounter a daunting question: “What happens next?” Transitioning back to civilian life can be challenging. Skills refined under intense circumstances may not easily transition to typical employment, and the sense of mission and camaraderie may seem elusive. Here, Vets to Drones steps in—a pioneering organization blending high-tech solutions, meaningful mentorship, and a commitment to unlocking the potential within every veteran. This is how they help veterans rediscover purpose, confidence, and a promising future, all powered by drones.
The Mission: From Boots to Joysticks
Vets to Drones is crafted by veterans for veterans, with the core objective of providing a gateway into the transformative drone industry. Since its inception in February 2023, this organization has empowered thousands of veterans, guiding them through the complexities of post-service transitions with practical skills and a supportive community.
“We created Vets to Drones to answer that question with opportunity, training, and a clear path forward.” — Chris Lewis, Founder/CEO, Vets to Drones
Why Drones? Beyond Just Flying—A New Mission
Drones, also known as Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), are reshaping various sectors: logistics, emergency response, agriculture, conservation, media, and more. For veterans accustomed to high-pressure situations, drone technology offers familiar tools and unlimited new opportunities due to its swift industry growth.
- A Sense of Purpose: Veterans excel in roles with visible real-world impacts, such as post-disaster surveys, sustainable agriculture mapping, or search-and-rescue operations.
- Skill Transfer: Leadership, decisive action, and discipline are prime military qualities esteemed in the drone sector.
- Tech-Forward Careers: From drone piloting and data analytics to logistics, drone careers open doors to high-value, future-oriented paths.
What Makes Vets to Drones Unique?
1. Free, World-Class Training
FAA Part 107 Certification Prep: Vets to Drones ensures veterans are fully prepared for the U.S. commercial drone operator exam, providing all necessary materials and guidance.
NIST Standards Training: Participants learn to operate under the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines, crucial for public safety or disaster response tasks.
Real-World Flight Scenarios: Simulated and live drone exercises ensure comprehensive, hands-on experience, not just theoretical knowledge.
2. Scholarships and Financial Support
Through partnerships and donations, financial obstacles are alleviated through scholarships and sponsorships, including training and often the equipment needed to start a career in drone technology.
3. 24/7 Mentorship & Peer Support
Veterans are supported continuously, thanks to guidance from seasoned UAV instructors and industry experts, covering everything from training to job searches and field operations.
4. Career Placement and Industry Connections
Vets to Drones connects graduates with hiring partners, job-shadowing experiences, and internships, facilitated through programs like DoD SkillBridge.
5. Community, Belonging, and a Shared Mission
Veterans are part of a robust network comprising fellow alumni, instructors, and industry leaders, ensuring no one is on this journey alone.
“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.” — David Crabtree, Director of Operations, Vets to Drones
Core Program Areas: Beyond Drones
| Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Workforce Development | Comprehensive drone training, industry certifications, and job placement support for high-demand roles. |
| K-12 Education | Outreach to schools to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders through drone workshops and demos. |
| Disaster Response | Mobilization of veteran-led drone teams for search & rescue, damage assessment, and post-disaster recovery. |
| Conservation | Using drones for wildlife tracking, forest monitoring, and supporting environmental initiatives. |
| Recreational Therapy | Leveraging drone flight for mental health recovery and social engagement, especially for those facing PTSD or isolation. |
Success Stories: From Service to Soaring
- Jeff, Agricultural Drone Pilot: An Army veteran turned flight instructor, Jeff advanced in precision agriculture, teaching others about multispectral mapping and eco-friendly practices.
- MAX, Former Student Pilot: His passion for flight and photography found a new home within the drone industry, turning pastimes into a vibrant career.
- DoD SkillBridge Interns: Service members interning with Vets to Drones gain industry experience even before their military uniforms come off.
Many graduates share how working with drones rekindled their mission and confidence, qualities sometimes diminished during the challenging transition from military to civilian life.
Top Reasons Veterans Choose Drones
- High Demand: The UAV sector is expected to grow rapidly, generating thousands of job opportunities annually.
- Low Entry Barrier: With programs like Vets to Drones, veterans can pursue industry certification without incurring debt or undue delay.
- Community Impact: From disaster response to conservation, drone deployment underscores veterans’ enduring dedication and specialized skills.
- Mental Wellness: Piloting drones can be highly therapeutic, offering focus and achievement, particularly for PTSD or anxiety sufferers.
- Transferable Skills: The skills of piloting, maintaining, and leading are inherently valuable and carry over from military to civilian careers.
Step-by-Step Guide: How Veterans Can Get Started
- Reach Out: Visit the Vets to Drones official site or directly get in touch with their team.
- Apply for Training: Submit an application—no previous drone experience required.
- Schedule a Consultation: The team will review your background and aspirations, ensuring the best pathway and support.
- Begin Training: Start with FAA Part 107 preparation and progress through hands-on flight and specialized modules in areas like agriculture or disaster response.
- Mentorship & Networking: Network with peers, mentors, and hiring contacts.
- Certification & Placement: With your FAA certification and experience, explore job opportunities, entrepreneurial ventures, or further specialization.
- Give Back: Many alumni give back by becoming instructors or volunteering for disaster relief missions.
Navigating VA Benefits and Financial Support
Vets to Drones aids veterans in utilizing VA benefits such as Chapter 31 (VR&E), which can cover comprehensive UAS training costs. Even though the VET TEC pilot concluded in 2024, other avenues remain open; their team offers personalized guidance.
Expert Tips & Advice
- Choose Your Path: The drone industry spans sectors from logistics to filmmaking—identify your passion and pursue it.
- Network Early: Engage with alumni, attend events, and reach out to veterans with experience in your selected area.
- Embrace Continuous Learning: The drone landscape evolves rapidly—stay inquisitive and regularly update your skills.
- Don’t Go Alone: Whether seeking emotional or technical support, the Vets to Drones community is a prime resource.
The Human Side: Leaders Behind Vets to Drones
The leadership, including Chris Lewis (Founder/CEO), David Crabtree (Director of Operations), and Curtis Lewis Jr (Vice President), are veterans themselves who transitioned from military to civilian success. Their passion, knowledge, and empathy are ingrained in the program’s fabric.
Supported by a dedicated network of volunteer instructors, mentors, and alumni, many supporters have rediscovered their own sense of purpose through Vets to Drones and are now investing in the upcoming generation.
How to Support or Partner with Vets to Drones
- Sponsor a Veteran: Contributions directly fund training, tools, and job placement.
- Become a Mentor or Instructor: Share your industry insights and experiences.
- Hire or Host Interns: Businesses seeking adept drone operators can partner with Vets to Drones for hiring.
- Collaborate on Projects: NGOs and agencies can align with Vets to Drones for humanitarian and disaster response initiatives.
Final Thoughts: A New Flight Plan for Life
For veterans who once heeded the call of duty, the journey doesn’t end after transition. Vets to Drones provides a new runway filled with meaningful missions, camaraderie, and cutting-edge adventures. Whether you are a veteran yearning for purpose, a business in search of skilled talent, or a supporter ready to make a mark, Vets to Drones demonstrates that with community and lift, the sky’s the limit.
Ready to reclaim your purpose? Reach out to Vets to Drones and discover how you or a veteran you know can soar to new heights.
Veterans, future drone pilots, and business partners—your mission awaits. Let’s take flight, together.
