Two sailboats anchored in the icy waters of the Wilhelm Archipelago, near a remote research station in Antarctica. A breathtaking glimpse of adventure in one of the world’s most untouched landscapes!
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As the demand for skilled drone operators continues to grow across high-paying industries, including infrastructure inspection, public safety and environmental monitoring, there comes more job opportunities. For veterans — whether you’ve recently transitioned to civilian life or have been out of the service for years — a career in drones can leverage existing experience — while offering a job that pays well.
But these days, just picking up a drone you bought online and learning how to fly it in your neighborhood park to take pictures is not enough. Proper training and certifications are essential to excel in this field. That’s both to distinguish yourself from less–knowledgeable competition — and to land top clients who want the best in the business.
Enrolling in a drone course for veterans can be a smart way to gain more knowledge while maximizing skills you’ve already gotten from the military. Plus, veterans eligible for Chapter 33 Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits might not even need to pay for their own education costs — that’s if they enroll in the right type of course.
In a breakdown of the best online drone courses for veterans in 2025, one stands out. That’s Clemson Drone’s Comprehensive UAS Training Program, which offers industry-recognized certifications and practical skills to ensure success in the UAS industry.
Why veterans prefer Clemson Drone for UAS training
Clemson Drone stands out for its innovative and flexible learning experience tailored for veterans. The program is 100% online, allowing students to learn at their own pace while balancing other responsibilities.
As part of the course, you’ll get to use an advanced flight simulator, experience immersive virtual walkthroughs of real-world mission sites and learn how to use AI tools to simplify complex tasks like SOP creation.
Backed by Clemson University, a leader in research and education, Clemson Drone guarantees the highest standards of learning, guided by experienced industry professionals. Veterans receive practical, hands-on training designed to prepare them for real-world UAS operations across various industries.
What truly sets Clemson Drone apart is its focus on earning industry-recognized certifications that enhance employability and career advancement. Students gain crucial credentials such as the FAA Remote Pilot Certificate, APSA BPERP for flight proficiency, Level 1 UAS Thermography and the prestigious AUVSI Level 1, 2, and 3 Trusted Operator certifications. These qualifications are highly respected and open doors to high-paying jobs in growing sectors like infrastructure inspection, public safety and environmental monitoring.
With its advanced technology, real-world applications and affiliations with top industry standards, Clemson Drone stands out. It’s a good choice for veterans looking to leverage their skills and transition into a career in the UAS industry.
UAS Vocation Course: the starting point
The UAS Vocation Course is the cornerstone of Clemson Drone’s Comprehensive UAS Training Program. It serves as a perfect entry point for veterans who want an advanced job in drones but don’t necessarily yet have their drone pilot’s license.
Key course features include:
FAA Part 107 Exam Preparation: Comprehensive training to pass the Part 107 exam, a requirement for commercial drone pilots.
Flight Proficiency Training: Hands-on practice using a state-of-the-art flight simulator. This relies on a controller that plugs into your computer, which is mailed to the students.
3D Mapping and UAS Thermography Skills: Training on the latest industry software for 3D mapping and thermal imaging. This includes an enterprise-level license to DroneDeploy.
Certifications Earned:
FAA Remote Pilot Certificate
APSA BPERP Flight Proficiency
Level 1 UAS Thermography
This course equips veterans with all the necessary skills to break into the UAS industry, providing a solid foundation for a range of career opportunities.
Clemson Drone simplifies the process with a streamlined four-step system:
Verify Eligibility – Confirm Chapter 33 benefits through the VA.
Enroll in UAS Vocation – Secure a spot in the course, paying upfront for tuition.
Apply for Reimbursement – Submit the necessary documentation to the VA for full tuition reimbursement. Clemson Drone provides all documentation and submission support.
Complete the Course – Gain the skills, hands-on experience, and industry certifications to start your job hunt prepared.
This option allows veterans to start the course immediately, gaining skills that can be quickly applied in the job market. However, veterans must initially cover the enrollment fee while waiting for the VA to process the reimbursement. That typically takes 30-60 days.
Exclusive benefits for veterans using Chapter 31 (VR&E)
Clemson Drone is an approved training provider (facility code: 46P00540) for the VA’s Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program (Chapter 31). This program is available to veterans with a 10% or more service-connected disability rating, a discharge status other than dishonorable, and a discharge date after January 1st, 2013.
This program provides an incredible opportunity for veterans to pursue Clemson Drone’s Comprehensive UAS Training Program without any out-of-pocket expenses, including tuition, materials and exam fees. However, the VR&E process can be slower than Chapter 33, taking up to four months to assign a counselor. Additionally, funding is not guaranteed as it depends on individual circumstances.
Attend VR&E Online Orientation – VA will contact you to attend the online orientation. This can take up to four months from when the application is submitted.
Schedule a meeting with a VR&E Counselor – You will be assigned a counselor at the orientation. They typically set up meetings within a week.
Prepare for your meeting with your Counselor – Be familiar with the Clemson Drone program so you can explain how this training supports overcoming your service-connected disability.
Develop a Vocational Plan with your Counselor – Work with your counselor to develop your vocational rehabilitation plan.
Using Chapter 31 benefits provides an excellent opportunity for veterans to receive comprehensive UAS training with zero out-of-pocket costs. The downside? It just takes time to enroll, and enrollment is not guaranteed.
Chapter 31: VR&E Program Advantage for UAS Mission Administration
For veterans who complete the UAS Vocation course, the UAS Mission Administration course is the next logical step. This advanced program is tailored for experienced UAS pilots or administrators overseeing multi-crew operations.
Key Features of UAS Mission Administration:
Advanced Mission Planning: Real-world scenario simulations using Virtual 3D walkthroughs.
AI-Driven SOP Creation: Cutting-edge tools to streamline standard operating procedure development.
NIST-Based Flight Assessments: Practical skills evaluation to ensure mission readiness.
Certifications Earned:
AUVSI Level 1, 2, and 3 Trusted Operator Certifications
Veterans enrolled in the VR&E program can incorporate the UAS Mission Administration course into their vocational rehabilitation plan, allowing the VA to cover the cost of this advanced training. Working closely with a VR&E counselor is crucial to aligning the course with career goals and securing funding. Unfortunately, Chapter 31 benefits don’t cover the UAS Mission Administration course.
What veterans need to know about their drone education
Clemson Drone offers the best online drone training program for veterans in 2025, combining flexibility, hands-on experience, and industry-recognized certifications. Veterans can maximize their benefits through either Chapter 31 or Chapter 33. With that, they’ll gain valuable skills for high-demand careers in the UAS industry.
Ready to learn more, and possibly enroll? Visit Clemson Drone’s Military Page for more information about starting your journey toward a rewarding career in drone technology.
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