SAN FRANCISCO, CA, UNITED STATES, May 20, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ — As AI and robotics continue to transform the way we work, the future of jobs is evolving in exciting and unpredictable ways. DroneDeploy and Prime Air, with support from FlyGuys, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI) Program, National Center for Autonomous Technologies (NCAT) and Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), are proud to champion this cause with the launch of the Elevate Scholarship Program. This initiative directly addresses demand in the burgeoning drone industry while serving as a model for preparing the future workforce for the convergence of technology and automation.
The World Economic Forum estimates that 65% of today’s children will work in jobs that don’t yet exist. Indeed, the workforce is changing rapidly, with recent reports indicating that up to 300 million jobs could be lost to AI globally, with 40% of employers expecting to reduce their workforce where AI can automate tasks. These statistics underscore the urgency to proactively develop training and educational programs that equip individuals with the skills to thrive in emerging industries. The drone industry exemplifies this shift, requiring a new generation of professionals who are adept at working with bleeding-edge technology and evolving with increasingly complex technological ecosystems.
The FAA forecasts tremendous growth in the demand for remote drone pilots, seeking nearly half a million new pilots over the next five years. The Elevate Scholarship Program is a direct response to this demand, ensuring a pipeline of qualified professionals to fill these critical roles. Elevate represents a strategic investment in the future workforce of drone technology, specifically targeting individuals aged 16-24.
The program goes beyond basic pilot training by bridging the skills gap, providing Part 107 training and resources to equip these young individuals with essential drone operation capabilities. Furthermore, Elevate promotes accessibility by removing financial barriers, notably covering the $175 test fee, to make drone careers a viable option for a wider pool of talent within this age group. Elevate aims to cultivate a skilled workforce that will drive continued innovation and expansion of drone technology across various sectors by fostering career pathways and connecting scholarship recipients with resources for advancement in the drone industry.
“The Elevate Scholarship Program is more than just a scholarship; it’s an investment in the future,” said Jono Millin, Chief Data Officer and Co-Founder of DroneDeploy. “By providing access to training and career resources, we are empowering individuals to not only participate in the drone revolution but also to shape the trajectory of the broader AI and robotics landscape.”
Read more at KUSI News here.