How I became The Eye in the Sky.

Recently, I was given a challenge. Learn to fly this drone and I might let you hold a dollar sir. My response, an emphatic yes! It sounded like fun, but I had not a clue what it really mean't. So here's my drone story.

I recently have been invited to work for a friend who owns a media company. He produces videos, designs websites, photography, amongst other things.

So the question then became, "what do you want me to do?" I started by sweeping the floor, and the man saw how I held the broom with such authority, such pazzazz, that he could no longer contain himself. He then said "How about you hold the controller for this drone here". I did. and now life will never be the same.

I did understand there was a need of certification. So I began searching for information. What a nightmare! There's piles and piles of advertising to search through, and for me trying to sift through a bunch of unrelated information is like, sifting through a sandbox, looking for your favorite matchbox tractor, and coming out with some cat poop. Super Irritating. I couldn't find what I was looking for and I only had a week and half to find the information I needed.

Finally, after looking at it for a day and feeling lost with it, it occurred to me that I should go to the source. I found the governing agency (FAA) and emailed their help desk for more information. They promptly responded with some information.

Personal note~The FAA have been very polite and to the point in our interactions. Thank you FAA.

I felt some relief, I thought "Well, now this should only get easier.".... Wrong! The reference material is very mechanical in language. Have a look for yourself if you like, "Becoming a Pilot". This a list of things you need to know in order to become a certified sUAS pilot.

So I spent the next day reading the manuals supplied from the FAA website. Then, I thought to myself "Am I ready for the test now?". I knew the answer in my heart, no good sir, you are not ready. I went to youtube and searched for #DroneTestPrep. This video is a little long but, it in my opinion is a very good resource. I got a pen, some paper, an extra large coffee and snuggled up to this.

Even after this, I was still not sure I was ready to spend the money on the test. But still, the clock was ticking. I needed to know where I was weak so I could give myself the edge I needed to complete this task. I thought for a few minutes more.

I remembered the FAA, and then I knew what to do next. I got on google and looked up the nearest testing facility. Blue Ridge Aviation was the go to for me. Within a half hour drive, and just a phone call away. I called and made an appointment for Part 107 sUAS test.

Also, I asked for information. They gave me the link to the Kingschool free drone pilot certification prep test. Really, this was the thing that set it off for me. If it wasn't for this, I don't think I would've passed the exam.

Thanks for all the help in getting this done. Without everyone's help, I wouldn't have been able to pass the test, and certainly I would not have been able to take this sweet snap.