As the drone industry continues to expand, expos surrounding them are also becoming more popular. Drone expos of all sizes are being held around the world. These events help people involved in the industry connect with each other and potential customers, provide educational growth, and further spread the word about drones in general. One of the most popular drone expos is the Commercial UAV Expo, held in Las Vegas, Nevada. “Commercial UAV Expo, presented by Commercial UAV News,” the company’s website states, “is the leading international trade show and conference focusing on the integration and operation of commercial UAS in select vertical markets.”

2024 marked the Commercial UAV Expo’s 10th anniversary and brought together 3,320 drone professionals and 225 exhibitors to celebrate the drone revolution. The event featured speakers from drone companies large and small, universities, the Federal Aviation Administration, and more. To mark the 10th anniversary, the event organizers decided to do something a little special this year to encourage more people to become involved in the drone industry. They announced that they would be creating a scholarship program for those dedicated to the growth of the drone industry.

“We are thrilled to introduce the UAV Empower: Path to Leadership Event Scholarship,” said Lora Burns, Senior Marketing Manager and DEI Manager at Commercial UAV Expo. “At Commercial UAV Expo, we highlight many of the benefits of drones, from medical deliveries to coastal mapping to search and rescue efforts. We are excited to empower the next generation of leaders who will use this technology to better their communities, and we are dedicated to creating access to valuable mentoring and education opportunities for students interested in the field. We want to inspire students while they are performing their studies and give them access to this event platform to help make those connections early in their careers.”

The scholarship was made available to undergraduate and graduate university students worldwide who are studying drones for the betterment of society and are traditionally from underrepresented communities within the industry. The website goes on to explain, “Recipients will be selected based on their academic achievements, demonstrated passion for drone technology and social impact, leadership potential, their commitment to promoting DEI initiatives within the commercial drone industry, and the clarity of their vision for utilizing drones for positive change.” The recipients would be awarded a pass to the Commercial UAV Expo, valued at $1,195, that would grant them access to all expo events, a $1,000 travel stipend (subject to increase based on need), hotel accommodations for three nights, and be matched with industry-leading mentors at the expo.

Initially, the scholarship was meant to be awarded to three individuals. However, out of the 80 applications the committee of judges received worldwide, four winners were chosen. The first recipient was Daniel Alayande from Nigeria, who became interested in drones during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has since continued to pursue drones and how they can foster collaboration throughout Africa.

The next recipient was Noah Baer, who also turned to drones when the pandemic forced him to shift his career goals. Noah is studying how drones can be used to benefit geographic technology processes. The third recipient was Jesca Manyika, who has always been passionate about aviation and technology. After volunteering at Zimbabwe Flying Labs, she became inspired to encourage youth and women in Africa to embrace drone technology. The final winner was Nina Shack, a student at Middle Tennessee State University studying drones and the aerospace industry.

Drones represent a wide range of opportunities, but it is still a niche industry. By making this scholarship available, the Commercial UAV Expo is providing those entering the industry with a stepping stone in the right direction. “This scholarship was more than just attending the Commercial UAV Expo, it was a gateway to invaluable connections and opportunities within the UAV industry,” Nina said. “The support and encouragement I received, particularly from women in the industry, have been empowering and inspiring. I’m excited to contribute to a community that is both dynamic and supportive.”

As the drone industry continues to evolve, initiatives like the Commercial UAV Expo scholarship program play a crucial role in fostering new talent and ensuring that diverse voices are heard within the field. By empowering the next generation of leaders, the expo is not only helping to shape the future of drone technology but also encouraging positive social impact through innovation. The committee is looking forward to awarding the next round of drone innovators with the Path to Leadership Event Scholarship and welcomes individuals to start applying now.

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