Drone Pilot Academy, a leader in hands-on drone education and certification training, announced its official launch at Velocity, Macomb County’s Michigan Economic Development Corporation SmartZone in Sterling Heights.
This new partnership brings cutting-edge drone pilot training to the region, creating accessible pathways for individuals pursuing both recreational and commercial drone certification.
Drone Pilot Academy is dedicated to training the next generation of certified drone pilots through immersive, practical instruction. The program offers courses for FAA TRUST (recreational) and FAA Part 107 (commercial) certification, equipping students with the skills and confidence needed to operate drones safely and professionally.
Founded by experienced instructor Mario Swaidan, one of Michigan’s first certified drone educators, the academy has already trained hundreds of students. By combining expert-led instruction with innovative tools such as augmented reality (AR) flight simulations, the program delivers a dynamic learning experience that mirrors real-world flight scenarios.
Drone Pilot Academy will offer multiple upcoming cohorts at Velocity:
• May Cohort: May 2, 9, 16, 30
• June Cohort: June 6, 13, 20, 27
• July Cohort: July 11, 18, 25, August 1
All sessions run from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM.
The 12-hour program includes:
• Drone Pilot Safety Training
• Practical Flight Knowledge
• Quizzes and Interactive Workshops
• FAA TRUST and Part 107 Certification Preparation
• One PSI Exam Sitting
Program Cost: $1,000
Discounted Cost: $500 (thanks to a generous grant from GEM)
Whether pursuing a new career or expanding technical skills, Drone Pilot Academy provides the tools, training, and support to succeed in the rapidly evolving drone industry. Prospective students are encouraged to apply and secure their spot in an upcoming cohort here: mivelocity.com/drone-pilot-academy.
