Drone Engineers

High School

A strong foundation for engineering work includes classes in math, science, design, and electronics. Take computer classes and any technology-related courses that your school offers. English classes will help hone your communication skills, which will be needed for writing reports and sharing information with engineering team members. Take foreign language classes too, which can be helpful for working with international companies and clients.

Postsecondary Education

Most drone engineers have a bachelor's degree in engineering, unmanned aircraft systems, or related fields. A growing number of schools offer degree programs in unmanned aircraft systems. Some examples include Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Oklahoma State University, and University of Nevada (Reno), to name only a few. The Unmanned Vehicle University in Phoenix, Arizona, offers degree and certification programs in unmanned systems engineering.

Certification

A growing number of schools are creating drone technology certificate and degree programs. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers an Uncrewed Systems Technology certificate program in which students must complete six courses: Applied Physics for Uncrewed Systems; Uncrewed Maritime Systems and Applications; Uncrewed Aircraft Systems and Operations; Operational and Business Aspects of Uncrewed Aircraft Systems; Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Robotics; and Uncrewed Systems Legal and Regulatory Compliance. Visit https://erau.edu/degrees/certificate/uncrewed-systems-technology for more information. Contact schools in your area to learn about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Drone engineers must continue their education, formally or informally, throughout their careers. Many professional engineering associations offer webinars, in-person classes, and other continuing education classes to help their members keep up with specialized knowledge (e.g., drone technology, electrical systems, generative artificial intelligence) and professional practice. For example, ASME provides conference sessions and courses on topics such as design, quality control, professional ethics, and materials science. The National Society of Professional Engineers provides webinars for student members of the society. Past webinars included Career Success in Engineering: A Guide for Students and New Professionals; Ethics and Professionalism for Students and Young Engineers; Communicating Clearly; Engineering Leadership: What, Why, and How; and How to Get Your First Job. The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International also offers webinars and other learning opportunities. Contact these and other organizations for more information.