Guest: David Jones

Background & Military Transition

David, a Marine Corps veteran and drone entrepreneur, shares his journey from military service to running a successful drone business. His transition began with an interest in aviation and drone technology, leading him to obtain his Part 107 commercial drone license. Despite initial uncertainty, he leveraged his military background and networking skills to break into the industry.

Breaking Into the Drone Industry

David’s early days in drones involved content creation—posting aerial footage on YouTube to sharpen his skills and attract potential clients. His breakthrough came when a former military connection offered him an opportunity with a commercial drone services company. This led to consistent contract work and industry exposure.

Finding a Profitable Niche

David experimented with different drone applications, including real estate photography, power line inspections, and insurance claims assessments, before specializing in:

• Roof Inspections
• Construction Progress Documentation
• Drone Mapping & Surveying

He stresses the importance of specializing to avoid being stretched too thin in an industry with numerous opportunities.

Challenges & Growth Strategies

Like many veteran entrepreneurs, David’s biggest challenge was client acquisition. While he secures work through Fly Guys, an independent drone contractor network, he is actively building his own direct client base through social media marketing, LinkedIn networking, and outreach. He also strategizes by targeting services with repeat business potential, such as ongoing construction site documentation and solar panel inspections.

Advice for Veterans Entering the Drone Business

David shares practical tips for veterans looking to enter the drone industry:

• Start with a reliable drone (DJI Mini series for beginners, DJI Mavic or Matrice for professional work).
• Buy used equipment if needed to keep costs down.
• Understand airspace regulations and flight restrictions before taking on commercial clients.
• Leverage military discipline and networking skills to stand out in the market.

Future Goals & Scaling the Business

David is now exploring government contracting opportunities, aiming to leverage veteran-owned business certifications to secure long-term contracts. He encourages fellow veterans to pursue continuous learning and stay ahead of industry trends.

Key Takeaways for Veteran Entrepreneurs

1. Use social media and content marketing to build your brand.
2. Specialize in a profitable niche to maximize efficiency and revenue.
3. Leverage your military network to uncover unexpected opportunities.
4. Think long-term—anticipate recurring client needs for sustained business.
5. Invest smartly in equipment—quality drones make a difference