North Carolina's drone technology pathway prepares students for technical careers in drone development, maintenance, and advanced operations. Students develop expertise in drone mechanics, electronics, programming, and advanced flight applications. Growing commercial and industrial drone use creates career opportunities.
Curriculum covers drone mechanics, electronics systems, programming and software, advanced flight techniques, and payload systems. Students build, repair, and program drones in hands-on labs. Learning emphasizes technical troubleshooting and innovation.
Graduates work as drone technicians, maintenance specialists, developers, and technical specialists for drone manufacturers, commercial operators, and technology companies. Many advance to engineering and leadership roles.
Drone Technology at a Glance
3
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
North Carolina's drone technology curriculum aligns with aviation and technology standards. Students complete 4-6 pathway units covering drone technology and maintenance as defined by NC DPI.
Programs teach drone mechanics and electronics. Students develop hands-on technical skills.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course | Code |
|---|---|
| Technology Engineering and Design | TE11 |
| Technological Design | TE12 |
| Engineering Design | TE13 |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓MSSC Certified Logistics Technician (CLT)
- ✓First Aid/CPR/AED
- ✓ASE Student Certification
- ✓ASE Entry-Level Certification
- ✓NOCTI Automotive Technology
- ✓NOCTI Automotive Collision and Body Repair
- ✓EPA 609 Certification
- ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Drone Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $37,560 - $59,400
Adjusted for cost of living: $39,898
Maintenance Specialist
ExperiencedSalary range: $37,870 - $58,050
Adjusted for cost of living: $50,138
Technical Lead
ExperiencedAdjusted for cost of living: $61,610
Engineering Specialist
ExperiencedSalary range: $56,410 - $103,310
Adjusted for cost of living: $81,889
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students intern at drone manufacturers, commercial operators, and technology development companies throughout North Carolina.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps North Carolina CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
North Carolina Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with North Carolina's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as North Carolina standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in North Carolina
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