Meet the Instructor
From Farming Heritage to Future Technology
Growing up on a family farm in Northern Ireland gave me a deep appreciation for the countryside with my brothers David & James, and our best mates and old school pals Robert & Steven Bunting, we all learned practical skills and the importance of embracing new opportunities.
As a 5th-generation member of my family connected to this land, I have witnessed how agriculture continues to evolve through innovation, technology and education.
Today, that passion has led me into the world of drone technology, where I help students develop the skills and confidence needed to operate drones safely and professionally.
One symbol that has become particularly meaningful to me is the traditional red farm gate.
For generations, the red gate marked the entrance to the farm and the work that lay beyond.
The farmer looking over the red gate.
Today, I see it as something more than that!
A gateway to opportunity.
A gateway to learning.
A gateway to future technology careers.
Every year, I see students arrive at Drone Pilot Training Academy as complete beginners and leave with new knowledge, confidence, qualifications and professional opportunities.
That journey reminds me of a simple message:
Come Through the Red Gate.
Because every professional drone pilot starts somewhere...
As Founder of Drone Pilot Training Academy, I deliver professional drone training through 3iC (RAE 1625), helping students across Northern Ireland, Ireland, the UK and Europe develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to fly safely, legally and professionally.
Drone Pilot Training Academy is also one of the first drone training providers to introduce a dedicated AI Assistant and AI Study Coach, providing students with 24/7 access to course information, booking support, revision quizzes and learning assistance.
My approach is practical, supportive and focused on real-world drone operations, making training suitable for complete beginners, hobbyists, schools, STEM learners and commercial operators alike.
Professional Drone Instructor You Can Trust
Real-World Drone Experience
With practical experience across commercial drone operations, surveying, inspections, mapping, media production, environmental projects and emergency services support, I bring real-world operational knowledge into every training session.
Flight Examiner & 3iC Assessor
As an experienced Flight Examiner, Practical Flight Assessor and accredited 3iC instructor, I provide training aligned with current UK drone regulations, industry best practice and recognised certification pathways.
Dedicated AI Learning Support
Students benefit from access to our AI Assistant and AI Study Coach, providing:
• 24/7 course support
• Revision assistance
• Multiple-choice quizzes
• Mock tests
• Weak area analysis
• Booking support
• Instant course information
This helps students continue learning and revising between training sessions.
Fully Insured Training Environment
Training takes place at a dedicated 20-acre drone training facility in Carryduff near Belfast, providing a safe and controlled environment for practical learning.
• Public Liability Insurance
• AccessNI Cleared
• DBS Cleared
• Structured Risk Assessments
• Professional Safety Procedures
Accredited Drone Training Through 3iC (RAE 1625)
Drone Pilot Training Academy delivers recognised drone training through 3iC (RAE 1625), supporting students pursuing UK drone certification pathways and commercial drone operations.
Professional Credentials
• Flight Examiner
• Practical Flight Assessor
• 3iC RAE 1625 Instructor
• AccessNI Cleared
• DBS Cleared
• Train the Trainer Qualified
Drone Training Courses Available
• Beginner Drone Pilot Training
• A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC)
• GVC Drone Course
• Operational Authorisation Support
• Commercial Drone Operations Guidance
• Drone STEM Workshops for Schools
All training focuses on genuine understanding, safe operation and practical skills, not simply passing an examination.
Training Built Around Your Goals
Whether you're flying for recreation, education or commercial work, training is tailored to your experience, confidence level and objectives.
What You'll Learn
• Safe and controlled drone flight techniques
• UK drone laws and regulations
• Airspace awareness and operational planning
• Flight planning and risk management
• Flying safely near people and property
• Commercial operating procedures
• Best practice and professional standards
Every session is delivered in a relaxed, supportive and structured environment designed to build confidence step by step.
Trusted Drone Training in Northern Ireland & Beyond
Students Travel from Across the UK & Europe
Students regularly travel to Carryduff near Belfast from:
• Northern Ireland
• Ireland
• Germany
• Norway
• The Netherlands
Organisations I Support
• Schools and STEM programmes
• Councils and Government Agencies
• Estate Agents and Media Teams
• Surveyors and Mapping Professionals
• Environmental Organisations
• Commercial Drone Operators
• Emergency Services Support Projects
Every student receives the same high standard of professional, supportive instruction.
Safety, Compliance & Professional Standards
Safety remains at the centre of all training and operations, including:
• Risk Assessment and Operational Planning
• Weather Awareness
• UK Drone Regulation Compliance
• Safe Flying Environments
• Professional Operating Procedures
My goal is simple:
Help you become a safe, confident and capable drone pilot.
Flight Assessment Preparation
Prepare for your practical flight assessment with structured, confidence-building training designed to help you perform at your best.
What You Can Expect
• Clear understanding of UK drone regulations
• Practical flying skills you can trust
• Safe flight planning and decision making
• Confidence for certification and commercial operations
• Ongoing support before, during and after training
Drone Training Location – Carryduff Near Belfast
Training is delivered from our dedicated training facility in Carryduff near Belfast, Northern Ireland, using suitable open areas and controlled training environments.
Book Your Drone Training
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you're starting from scratch or progressing towards certification, I'll guide you every step of the way.
Book your drone training today and start your journey with confidence.
#SmartFarmingNI www.smartfarmingNI.com
📞 07565 481897
📱 AI Assistant: 07403 656150
