September 2-4, 2025 • Caesars Forum • Las Vegas
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September 2-4, 2025 • Caesars Forum • Las Vegas
Daniel’s journey in the drone industry began unexpectedly during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. Confined to school with limited activities, a group of Daniel’s friends were inspired by reports of drone usage in China. Intrigued, they pooled their resources to build a locally-made fixed-wing drone, relying solely on YouTube videos for guidance in its construction.
Their initial attempts were fraught with challenges. They began with a cardboard frame that proved too weak to support the battery and motor, eventually transitioning to Styrofoam, and solving adhesive problems with hot glue through several trials and errors. They also battled technical hurdles, including when their Matek F411 flight controller failed. These challenges, though frustrating, were also enlightening. It is through these early struggles that Daniel’s passion for drones was sparked. In 2021, he applied for the Nigerian Drone Business Competition, partnered with the US Embassy. Out of over 900 applicants, he placed in the top three with their proposal for drones in agriculture – a pivotal moment that transformed his trajectory.
In 2022, Daniel received a scholarship for a diploma program with the African Drone Academy in Malawi, sponsored by UNICEF. This comprehensive program provided him with crucial technical and theoretical training. He went on to earn the Trusted Operator Program Certificate from AUVSI and obtained a license from Malawi’s Department of Civil Aviation Authority, officially becoming a certified and licensed drone pilot.
In 2023 and 2024, he transitioned into professional work, focusing on agricultural drone spraying. Notable projects included spraying over 1000 hectares at Dangote Sugar Refinery and collaborating on projects involving the Minister of Communications.
Building on his experience, Daniel has recently taken a role as the program coordinator for African Drone Forum. In this capacity, he brings his expertise to the forefront, facilitating discussions and knowledge-sharing sessions that contribute to the advancement of the drone industry in Africa. This role allows Daniel to not only apply his, skills but also to foster collaboration and innovation across the continent.
Daniel’s journey from a novice experimenting during lockdown to a licensed professional handling large-scale projects and coordinating industry forums demonstrates my growth and dedication to the drone industry.
Noah was a Fire Explorer for five years, and originally wanted to pursue becoming a firefighter as a career. In 2020, when the global pandemic hit, his career path was delayed, and many opportunities were canceled. Shifting gears, Noah regrouped and found new interests to pursue, which has become a new path in his life.
Noah started a Drone Applications and Technologies program almost two years ago and has been fascinated with the field and industry ever since. Noah has recently completed their A.S. degree in Drone Applications and Technology and is currently studying Geography: Geographic Information Science and Technology. Noah also obtained his Part 107 License last year, and has since been flying professionally, collecting multispectral data, recording and broadcasting video, and collecting lidar data.
Jesca’s journey into the drone industry stems from a deep passion for aviation and technology. As a young 24-year-old Zimbabwean woman pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Developmental Studies final year, she found herself drawn to the idea of using drones for societal advancement.
In 2021, while in her second year at university, she stumbled upon Zimbabwe Flying Labs, an organization dedicated to drone technology, seeking volunteers for their first-ever inaugural drone conference. This conference was set to host drone professionals from across Africa, sharing their expertise and experiences. Eager to participate, Jesca reached out to the team lead and expressed their interest in volunteering. The conference proved to be a pivotal moment for Jesca. Witnessing the innovative applications of drones and the remarkable contributions of women in the industry ignited a newfound passion. Inspired by this experience, she embarked on a journey of self-education, connecting with aviation professionals, and seeking mentorship opportunities.
Jesca’s involvement with Zimbabwe Flying Labs evolved, leading her to become a youth instructor for their drones in STEM educational programs. Through this initiative, she had the privilege of introducing over five thousand young learners to the world of drones, fostering their curiosity and passion for drone technology. Driven by a desire to empower young girls in Africa, Jesca is dedicated to showing young African girls the possibilities of aviation and other STEM careers, which has resulted in them volunteering as a Programs Manager for African Leaders in Aviation.
Jesca’s dedication and perseverance was recognized when she was awarded a scholarship from Women in Aviation International, enabling her to obtain advanced certifications in drone operations and further pursue her educational endeavors.
At present, Jesca is deeply immersed in the security and surveillance division in the drone industry as a Remote Pilot assistant for Iron Mask Aerotech, utilizing her skills to make meaningful contributions to society. With over four years of experience in unmanned aerial vehicle piloting and as a youth instructor, Jesca is committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and inspiring the next generation of aviation enthusiasts. Her journey into the drone industry has been fuelled by passion, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive impact. Jesca is excited to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible and shaping the future of aviation and technology.
Nina is a first-generation college student attending Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) graduating in the fall of 2025 with a bachelor’s of science with a Major in Aerospace (specifically Unmanned Aircraft Systems or UAS) with a double minor in Engineering Technology and Physical Geography. Currently, Nina possesses a student pilot license and an FAA remote pilot certificate.
At the age of 13, Nina joined the Aviation Career Enrichment (ACE) program located in Fulton Georgia. The program provided ground school training for a small monthly fee for those from underserved and unrepresented programs. Attending the ACE Program, she was exposed to the vast world of aviation, including mechanical, UAV, air traffic control, etc. Later she was accepted to attend free flight programs such as the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP) solo flight academy and TuskegeeNEXT private pilot program. Nina loves aerospace, physics, and technology, which led her to choose UAS at Middle Tennessee State University.
Nina intends to use their degree in service of others by bringing innovation and integration to the vast market of drones. Underserved communities are given limited exposure to the evolving technology that most take for granted daily. Nina believes in bridging the gap and sharing the skills she acquired with those facing adversity. Throughout her educational career at MTSU, she acquired collaborative skills while engaging in hands-on experiences such as operating, developing, and programming makeshift material Unmanned Aircraft Systems, integration of ideas, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
Nina draws strength from her past and is grateful to have defined the odds stacked against her. Nina aspires to generate a more diverse workforce for women in STEM, taking each day as an opportunity to learn and improve for the future.
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