East Orange’s Drone Program: Transforming City Maintenance and Training

In East Orange, New Jersey, an innovative drone training program is empowering residents with unique skills while providing practical benefits to the city.

The program, a partnership between the city and Alpha Drones USA, offers free commercial drone training, reports The Patch.

Graduates of the 2023 program, including 20 East Orange residents of diverse ages and skillsets, completed a six-week hybrid course comprising self-directed study, in-person and virtual instruction, and hands-on training.

“During the pandemic, the commercial drone market experienced a surge in demand, prompting many industries to use drones to perform important operations such as surveillance, inspection, maintenance, mapping, surveying, and more. With the continuous advancements in AI technology, drone operations are primed for even more sophisticated uses that will improve productivity, reduce costs, increase safety, and expand access to hard-to-reach areas.”

East Orange city officials explained.

One of the practical applications of their training was the commercial cleaning of East Orange City Hall and East Orange Municipal Court.

This project not only provided valuable experience for the participants but also resulted in cost savings for the city.

Mayor Ted Green of East Orange highlighted the city’s commitment to innovative workforce development by focusing on the growing commercial Drone Industry.

He emphasized that this sector is expected to experience significant job growth in the next 25 years. To prepare residents for these emerging opportunities, the city initiated a drone training program. Green pointed out that obtaining a commercial drone license is highly valuable in the current job market.

He expressed that the program equips participants not just with skills but also with tools to either enhance their existing careers or to establish their own businesses in this transformative field.

The program reflects East Orange’s commitment to innovative workforce development and offering residents access to emerging market skills.

The graduates also received FAA Part 107 Certification Licenses, enabling them to operate commercial drones.

Interested in enrolling in the drone training program or seeking additional information? Reach out to the Mayor’s Office of Employment and Training by emailing ladonna.johns@eastorange-nj.gov or calling 973-677-8914.

Photo courtesy of the City of East Orange.