Photo Provided Edison High School offers a drone program that can prepare juniors and seniors for a growing number of high-tech careers. Pictured are, front from left, Kyle Long, Gunner Cronin and Zach Trimble. Back: J.J. Reynolds, Luke Ferralli, Jackson McBane, Clayton Bokenuvitz, Matt Evans, Brady Wells, Brad Berardinelli, and Jayden Kelly.

RICHMOND — Edison High School’s drone program is really taking off as it exposes students to a growing career pathway.

Led by engineering teacher Derek Gulling, the program was launched during the 2023-24 school year and currently includes 11 juniors and seniors. Since its inception, Gulling said the pathway has gained plenty of interest among the pupils.

“The school started the drone program to boost interest in exploring drone flying as a career,” he said. “It has been a very popular elective. I teach them how to fly drones safely and responsibly, and I also instruct them in the U.S. regulations and airport operations to prepare them to take their Part 107 certificate which allows them to fly drones for jobs.”

Students utilize DJI Mavic 3 Pro and Skydio drones for their lessons, which include reading charts and learning to fly the apparatus to obtain certification through the FFA. Gulling said he has seen a growing number of pupils join the program through the years.

“We max capacity year after year. Many students can’t afford to independently purchase these drones as they can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars,” he added. “They appreciate being able to learn to fly higher quality drones and many continue to pursue the certificate.”

Gulling continued that his students have opportunities to pursue a multitude of careers as drone operators, and among the fields that utilize the equipment are electric companies, search and rescue organizations, public service, law enforcement, and agriculture. Some of his students say they have an eye on a potential career in drone-based fields and the education they are getting from the program is giving them a real advantage.

“It gives us an opportunity to expend our abilities in the workforce and we can do so much with our drone license,” said senior Brady Wells. “I hope to maybe go into the Air Force and will already have a license.”

“I think it’s fun because we get to go out and fly them and it’s hands-on learning,” added senior Kyle Long.