The Challenge:

Haugland Group, a leader in energy and civil construction services, relies heavily on drone technology across its large-scale infrastructure projects. Recognizing the growing demand for skilled drone operators, they saw an opportunity to build a local talent pipeline. 

Their Goal:

Create a pipeline of drone-certified talent by introducing students to real-world applications of drone technology before graduation, while equipping educators with the tools and training to integrate drones into core academic subjects.

The Solution:

WhyMaker partnered with the Haugland Group and Stony Brook University to design and deliver a comprehensive drone education program at Longwood High School. The program combined industry-aligned curriculum, hands-on instruction, and educator professional development to connect classroom learning directly to workforce needs.

What We Delivered:

Student Drone Certification Program
Designed and led a three-month after-school drone training program for 11th and 12th-grade students, preparing them to earn their FAA Part 107 Drone License and develop career-ready technical skills.

Industry-Aligned Curriculum
Developed curriculum grounded in real infrastructure use cases, giving students exposure to how drones are used in surveying, construction planning, and large-scale project operations.

Educator Professional Development
Provided hands-on training for Longwood High School teachers to integrate drone technology into existing coursework across math, science, art, and physical education.

What We Accomplished Together:

• 20 students earned FAA Part 107 Drone Licenses
• 10 educators trained to incorporate drones in their classrooms
• 6 project-based learning experiences launched across diverse subjects

Why This Work Matters for Industry Leaders:

This partnership shows what’s possible when education and industry align around real workforce needs.

Through WhyMaker’s program design and facilitation, this initiative:

• Created a local pipeline of licensed drone operators
• Gave students early access to high-demand technical skills
• Empowered educators to teach emerging technologies with confidence
• Strengthened community connections between schools, industry, and higher education

The result was more than a training program. It was a workforce-ready pathway that prepared students for real careers while helping industry leaders invest in the future talent their operations depend on.