The drone or unmanned aviation industry has grown tremendously as more people are using drones for both recreational and commercial purposes. In fact, drones can greatly assist both electricians and non-electricians in tasks such as inspecting roof solar panels and power lines, and other tasks across multiple industries from agriculture to construction.
To become a qualified drone pilot and operate drones in a commercial or business environment, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requires you to obtain a drone pilot license or Remote Pilot License (RePL). While there are numerous providers that provide training for drone piloting, it’s crucial to choose the right one to ensure that you get the best value and quality in your training. Let’s take a look at what to consider when choosing a drone pilot license training provider.
1. Do They Have Qualified Trainers?
The trainers at your chosen training provider should be certified to train and assess students in a drone pilot course. With this qualification, you know that they are able to provide a high standard of training and teach you the necessary skills to properly handle a drone. Your trainers should have extensive experience in the unmanned aviation industry so you know that they have all the relevant expertise.
2. Do They Have Effective Training Solutions?
Your drone pilot license training provider should offer in-depth theoretical and practical knowledge, especially since drone pilots need to be highly skilled in various aspects. Besides the core modules, consider providers that have great training facilities offering business and marketing knowledge that can boost your career. To provide effective training, CET partners with Global Drone Solutions, a leader in the unmanned aviation industry that has helped train hundreds of drone pilots to utilise drones across various industries.
3. Do They Have Comprehensive Training Modules?
Investigate what is offered within the training modules when choosing a training provider. While most RePL courses share the same fundamental modules, some organisations provide modules that offer better value. At CET, we offer comprehensive training modules to prepare you for any situation you may encounter in the real world. Highly useful training modules to look out for are Risk Assessment and Mission Planning.
4. Do They Provide Networking Opportunities?
If you have an existing business, you can use your drone pilot license in your operations. However, most students will need to look for opportunities elsewhere to apply their new skills. A training provider that has industry connections can help you unite with potential employers and increase your employability.
5. Does The Learning Schedule Suit You?
Understandably, most RePL course students already have work, family and social commitments. When choosing a training provider, consider if the learning schedule works for you and if they have flexible options. At CET, you can enroll on a module-by-module basis according to your schedule or enroll for the full course, with both options providing online training, modules for self-study, and practical classes in the field.
6. Where Is The Training Location?
At CET, we conveniently accommodate for students on both sides of the river and provide drone pilot training at our CET campus in Joondalup and at Global Drone Solutions’ premises in Melville.
7. What About The Reputation Of The Provider?
There are many new training providers with limited experience that may not offer the best value. Consider reputable organisations that have first class facilities, trainers and experience in the industry. Look at reviews from past students and complete thorough research on the provider and check if they are a certified training provider on the *CASA website.
Getting a drone pilot license can open up promising avenues for your career, regardless of whether you’re an electrician or not. If you’re interested in pursuing drone piloting as a profession, or you're an electrician looking to upskill, get in touch with us today or check out our drones course page for more information.
*CET's training partner 'Global Drone Solutions' are registered as 'GDS Investments Pty Ltd' under CASA's list of UAS operator certificate holders.