Workforce Development
![]()
[email protected]
October 24, 2025
6 Reasons High School CTE Teachers Should Add Drone Training to Their Programs
Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs aim to prepare students for high-demand careers, and one of the fastest-growing industries today is drone technology. From aerial inspections to filmmaking and emergency response, drones are reshaping industries and creating exciting opportunities for students.
Here are the top six reasons high school CTE teachers should consider adding drone training to their programs.
1. High-Paying Future Career
According to ZipRecruiter, the average drone pilot in the U.S. earns over $130,000 per year. Salaries vary depending on industry, location, and experience, but this demonstrates that drone technology is a lucrative, high-demand career path.
2. Multiple Career Pathways
Drone training opens doors to diverse career opportunities across industries:
- Construction & Surveying: site inspections, 3D mapping
- Agriculture: crop monitoring, precision spraying
- Public Safety: search & rescue, police/fire operations
- Media & Filmmaking: aerial photography, cinematography
- Environmental Science & GIS: mapping, conservation studies
Students gain transferable skills applicable to multiple high-growth fields. High school students can get an early start through DARTdrones’ High School Drone Curriculum, building foundational skills for these exciting careers.
3. Hands-On, Real-World Learning
Drones allow students to apply STEM concepts in a practical way. They combine physics, coding, GPS navigation, and aerodynamics with real-world applications like flight planning, data collection, and aerial mission analysis.
4. FAA Part 107 Certification Opportunities
Students completing a drone program can prepare for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification, which allows them to operate drones commercially in the U.S. This credential gives students a competitive edge for employment or college programs.
For more details and study materials, check out DARTdrones’ FAA certification resources to get fully prepared.
5. Cross-Curricular Integration
Drone programs enhance multiple CTE and STEM disciplines:
- Agriculture: crop analysis, field mapping
- Engineering & Construction: surveying, inspections
- Media Arts: aerial photography and video production
- Science & Technology: environmental monitoring
Integrating drones across subjects fosters collaboration and expands learning opportunities.
6. Boosts Engagement and Enrollment
Drone courses capture student excitement while demonstrating practical, future-ready skills. Schools offering drone programs often see:
- Higher enrollment in CTE pathways
- Increased community engagement
- Partnerships with local businesses and universities
Conclusion
Adding drone training to a high school CTE program equips students with high-paying career opportunities, diverse industry pathways, FAA certification, and hands-on STEM skills. It’s a strategic investment in both student success and your program’s reputation.
DARTdrones provides a complete high school drone curriculum, FAA-aligned teacher training, and hands-on flight resources to help educators launch a successful program.
