- If you’re interested in this program and you live within our service area, fill out our application form then follow the prompts to schedule a virtual appointment.
- If you’re unable to reserve a virtual appointment or would rather meet with one of our team members in person to begin your application process, we also accept walk-ins at all of our career centers.
Drone Pilot Training
Goodwill’s free Drone Pilot training program helps participants quickly develop the knowledge and skills needed to operate drones. This eight-week Drone Pilot training program, which we refer to as “Intro to Commercial Drones,” includes comprehensive, hands-on training that teaches you the skills and information you need to pilot drones safely and legally. In addition, we’ll cover the types of flight systems available; their capabilities and which one would be best for your use; how drones can be used in business and industry applications; how to apply drone technology to bring efficiencies to business; and drone photography and videography skills.
2024 Training Dates
| Instruction Dates | Instruction Days | Instruction Time |
| January 30 – March 21 | T, W, Th | 6 – 9:30 p.m. |
| June 11 – August 1 | T, W, Th | 6 – 9:30 p.m. |
| September 24 – November 11 | T, W, Th | 6 – 9:30 p.m. |
Training Location
This program takes place in person at the Goodwill Construction Skills Training Center, our state-of-the-art training facility located in west Charlotte.
Certification Opportunities
The FAA remote pilot knowledge test Unmanned Aircraft – General includes 60 questions and requires a passing score of 70%. The test costs $160 and is paid for by Goodwill after meeting the requirements for program completion.
Requirements for Completion
To successfully complete Goodwill’s Drone Pilot program, you must:
- Have at least an 85% attendance rate
- Achieve a passing score (70%) on the Part 107 pre-test
- Pass the six Performance Profile tests
- Achieve a passing score of 70% on the FAA remote pilot test
- Complete end of class practicum
- Participate in showcase
Prerequisite
- In order to enroll in Goodwill’s Drone Pilot training program, you must first successfully complete Goodwill’s Construction Basics program and obtain the NCCER CORE Certification.
- You must also have at least 18 months of experience working within the construction industry, and you must have worked with one employer for at least six months.
Related Career Information
To find out more information about potential careers, trends, wages and benefits for those that complete this program, visit www.onetonline.org.
Wraparound Services
When you take one of our training programs, you get the added benefit of working with several of our teams to make sure you are fully prepared to take the next step and land a job! These teams are:
- Career Navigation team: each participant will be assigned a career navigator who provides ongoing career coaching and employability skills training such as developing your resume, crafting an elevator pitch, preparing for a job interview and more.
- Employer Engagement team: provides mock interview and employment assistance to all program participants by partnering with employers to facilitate employer-led training, job site tours, hiring events and direct job placements.
