Where could drones take you?

There is no single correct path. People reach these careers through work, certificates, community college, university, the military, or starting a business, and many switch routes along the way.

1. Stage 1

   What you can do now

   • Explore every component in the Engineering Lab
   • Try the Build-a-Drone prototype
   • Practice component identification (opens in a new tab)
   • Take an F450 apart and trace every wire in AeroNatomy (opens in a new tab)

2. Stage 2

   High-school preparation

   • Physics
   • Engineering / robotics electives
   • Electronics or manufacturing CTE
   • Algebra & geometry

3. Stage 3

   Skills to build

   • Soldering
   • Reading wiring diagrams
   • Using a multimeter
   • Configuring ArduPilot/PX4/Betaflight
   • Systematic troubleshooting

4. Stage 4

   Certifications

   • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (minimum age 16)
   • IPC soldering certification (J-STD-001) — valued in manufacturing
   • Mechatronics certifications

5. Stage 5

   Portfolio projects

   • A documented F450/Pixhawk build with photos and parameter files
   • Repair log: problem → diagnosis → fix
   • A build video explaining each system

6. Stage 6

   After high school: choose a route

   Industry certificateCommunity collegeUniversityMilitary

   • Industry certificate

     Short technical certificates (soldering, electronics) can lead straight to technician roles.

     e.g. IPC soldering training · Electronics technician certificate

   • Community college

     Mechatronics and electronics programs teach the systems inside every drone.

     e.g. Linn-Benton CC Mechatronics / Industrial Automation

   • University

     Engineering technology or engineering degrees for design roles.

     e.g. Mechanical / electrical engineering technology

   • Military

     UAS maintainer career fields combine hands-on repair with serious training.

     e.g. Military UAS maintainer roles

   Compare programs in Opportunity Radar

7. Stage 7

   Possible entry-level positions

   • Drone assembly technician
   • Repair technician
   • Fleet maintenance tech
   • Test technician

8. Stage 8

   Long-term careers

   • Manufacturing engineer
   • Hardware engineer
   • Fleet maintenance manager
   • Product owner