
Further your drone journey with Advanced Real-World Drone Missions
Students Master Advanced Drone Skills and Earn Their Level 2 Certification
Learn real-world techniques in aerial photography, inspections, mapping and modeling, search and rescue, and disaster response.

Advanced Real-World Drone Missions Coursework
- Intro to Mapping & Modeling
- Aerial Photogrammetry
- Getting Started with DroneDeploy
- 3D Modeling
- Using the Map Engine
- Analyzing Your Data
- Map Accuracy
- Ground Control Points
- Exporting Your Data
- The DroneDeploy App Market
- Use Cases for Aerial Inspections
- Intro to Aerial Inspections with sUAS
- Aerial Inspection Techniques
- Capturing Quality Imagery
- Managing Drone Emergencies
- Preflight Planning
- On-Site Assessment
- Crew Coordination
- Mapping & Modeling for Aerial Inspection
- Intro to Thermal Imaging
- Introduction to sUAS for Search and Rescue
- Search and Rescue Progression
- Aerial Search Patterns
- Pre-Flight Search and Rescue Stages
- Coordination and Execution
- Search and Rescue Conclusion
- Search and Rescue Practice Exercises
- Understanding Emergency Management
- Disaster Response Operations
- UAV Applications
- Disaster Response Operations
- Selecting Equipment
- Building Partnerships
- Drone Operation Partnerships
- Flight Factors and Planning
- Preparing for Disaster Response Operations
- Aerial Imaging
- Aerial Photography Settings
- Aerial Videography Settings
- Aerial Shots
- Improving Operational Safety
- Risk Assessment and Management
- Building Custom Checklists
- Site Assessment
- Real-World Weather Assessment
- Real-World Airspace
- Visual Observer and Crew Best Practices
- Flight Principles and Performance
- Overcoming Disorientation
- Emergency Procedures
- Understanding Aviation Communications
- Equipment Care and Maintenance
- Battery Care and Safety
- Air Law Review
Turn-Key Curriculum
DARTdrones offers everything an instructor needs to get started teach their own Advanced Real-World Drone Missions class.

Mid-Term and Final Exam

Class Discussion Guidelines

Class Activities

Grading Rubrics
Take a Sneak Peek Inside the Advanced Real-World Drone Missions Course
Ongoing Support For Teachers
We are dedicated to your success!
Videos of DARTdrones Instructors teaching the same material
Live question and answer sessions with DARTdrones Instructors
Virtual check ins with other teachers teaching the same material
Access for teachers and administrators to track student progress and test scores in our LMS system
Aerial Photography and Videography
Students dive deep into the art and science of aerial photography and videography. Drones are powerful tools for capturing stunning visuals, but achieving professional-level results requires more than just flying skills. This section of the course covers manual camera settings such as ISO, aperture, shutter speed, and proper exposure to help students shoot in any condition. Students will also explore camera angles, color settings, gimbal use, smooth flight control, and common drone shots.

Aerial Inspections
Students master the skills needed to perform safe, accurate, and professional drone inspections. This section of the course focuses on real-world applications across industries like construction, utilities, and infrastructure. Students will learn preflight planning and onsite assessment, how to mitigate the risk in flights, and identify potential hazards. The training also covers the use of thermal imaging as well as photogrammetric orthomosaic products. With hands-on scenarios and expert guidance, students will be prepared to confidently conduct aerial inspections that meet industry standards and client expectations.

Mapping and Modeling
Students learn to effectively gather, analyze, and export mapping data. This section of the course dives into drone mapping techniques used in industries like construction, agriculture, engineering, and architecture. Students will explore flight planning, techniques, ground control points, and data capture best practices. This part of the course teaches students the intricacies of identifying the critical components of image datasets that impact orthomosaic map and model quality. By the end, students will have the skills to execute professional mapping missions and deliver valuable insights through drone-collected data.

Aerial Search and Rescue
Students develop the skills to support life-saving missions using drone technology. This section of the course focuses on how to effectively deploy drones in search and rescue operations, including missing persons, water search, and emergency support. Students learn mission planning, search patterns, thermal imaging, and how to work within Incident Command Systems. With practical, real-world scenarios, students are prepared to safely and efficiently assist in critical SAR missions using aerial tools.

Disaster Response with Drones
Students gain the knowledge and skills to effectively support emergency operations with drone technology during both natural and man-made disasters. This section of the course covers drone deployment in scenarios such as hurricanes, floods, fires, and manmade hazards. Students learn how to assess damage, support incident command, and maintain safe flight practices in complex and dynamic environments. The training includes flight planning, selecting equipment, and strategies for working alongside emergency response teams. By the end of the course, students are equipped to provide valuable aerial support when it matters most.

Why DARTdrones?
We don’t code with drones. We don’t play with drones. We are 100% about drone real world operations.
DARTdrones Instructors are here to support the teachers, students, and all partnerships for growth.
Educators choose DARTdrones for professional development that builds confident, capable drone pilots—no experience required.
Our Workforce Development Team

Kelly Longaker
Kelly is a dedicated professional and seasoned public educator boasting a rich background with over 20 years of experience specializing in curriculum and content development, lesson design and differentiation. Kelly partnered with DARTdrones in the development of a customizable drone training program for young learners looking to establish and grow in their career and technical development training. Her main focus lies in developing engaging learning materials and strategies to enhance student learning outcomes. Her ultimate goal is to continue making a positive impact in the field of education and supporting the growth and development of students and educators alike.

Chris Speicher, Ph.D.
Chris is one of the co-founders of DARTdrones and also the Executive Director of the School of Business and Global Innovation at Marywood University in Scranton, PA. Chris has been involved with over 30 start-up entries in his professional career, but his passion remains teaching and educating young people from around the world on how to succeed in business in an ethical manner. Chris is the 2020 recipient of the International Academic Excellence Award from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and the 2020 recipient of the Faculty Mentor Award, X-Culture International Business Plan Competition.

Jerry White
Jerry has a background spanning various roles including flight instruction, corporate, charter, and airline piloting. Jerry has amassed over 7,000 flight hours. Notably, his expertise extends to drone piloting and executive leadership within the aviation industry. Beyond his piloting credentials, Jerry’s entrepreneurial journey as a small business owner and his role as a business consultant provide him with a comprehensive understanding of aviation operations and safety management. His experience as a flight instructor, particularly in teaching high school students to obtain their private pilot license, underscores his dedication to sharing his knowledge and skills with others.
Learn More About Bringing Drones to Your Classroom
Frequently Asked Questions
Students should have an FAA Part 107 certification, or be on their way to achieving one, at least 5 hours of flight time on drones made by DJI, Autel, Skydio, etc. and have completed the Intro to Drones course.
This course teaches the real world missions that drone pilots will face at drone jobs. After learning to fly and pass Part 107, this course is key for employment.
Yes, teachers can opt in to in-person, virtual, or private train the trainers options.
Join our community of drone experts!
Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date with drone industry trends, events, and expert advice.
