Pilot story: james folk |

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27 November 2024

I've always been a bit of a tech enthusiast. With over 18 years in software development, I've dabbled in everything from video games to virtual reality, and even blockchain. But one of my most exciting ventures has been into the world of drones. It's a journey that combines my love for technology with a newfound passion for capturing the world from above.

My journey with technology began long before drones entered the picture. Growing up, I was the kid who took apart gadgets just to see how they worked. This curiosity naturally led me to a career in software development, where I could create and innovate. Over the years, I've worked with some incredible companies like Warner Bros. Discovery and 343 Industries, contributing to projects that pushed the boundaries of what's possible in gaming and technology. Each role taught me something new, and I was always eager to apply these lessons to my personal projects.

Journey with Drones

My fascination with drones started quite simply. I received a toy drone as a gift, and I was hooked. Watching it hover so steadily in the air, I initially thought it was all about the skill of the operator. But soon, I realized it was the technology within the drone itself that made it so stable. This revelation sparked my curiosity, and I dove headfirst into learning everything I could about drones.

I stumbled upon an ad from Chris Newman at Drone Pro Academy, which promised to guide me through the world of drones and help me prepare for the Part 107 licensing exam. Around the same time, I got a free book from the Drone Boss, which was a game-changer. With these resources, I passed the Part 107 exam and was officially ready to take my drone passion to the next level.

Flying a drone, especially an FPV drone, is like having your head in the clouds. I remember attending Maker Faires in Brooklyn, where FPV drone races were held before the pandemic hit. Watching those drones zip around was exhilarating, and I wished I had been as invested in drones back then as I am now. Who knew COVID would change so much?

The pandemic, while challenging, gave me the time to dive deeper into my drone interests. I spent countless hours practicing my flying skills, learning about drone mechanics, and exploring the various applications of drone technology. It was during this time that I realized the potential of drones to transform industries and create new opportunities.

Achievements and Projects

My first self-stabilizing drone in 2020 opened up a whole new world for me. The joy of seeing the world from a bird's-eye view was incredible, and it pushed me to learn more about photography and video editing. I quickly realized that this hobby could become a business.

While pursuing my MBA, I started writing articles on Medium about drone marketing for real estate and began planning my drone company, NJLIC Drone Footage. I got my first break when a company found me on Drone Pilots Central and hired me for video progression projects. It was thrilling to see my work help others visualize their projects in a new way.

As a game developer, I naturally gravitated towards 3D image mapping and LIDAR technology. These tools allowed me to create detailed maps and models, which have applications in everything from urban planning to environmental conservation. It's amazing how drones can bridge my interests in gaming and technology.

One of my most rewarding projects was collaborating with local real estate agencies to create immersive drone walk-throughs. These projects not only showcased properties in a unique light but also helped clients visualize their future homes from a perspective they had never seen before. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and it was gratifying to see how my work could influence such significant decisions in people's lives.

In addition to real estate, I ventured into construction progression documentation. This involved capturing the evolution of construction sites over time, providing stakeholders with a comprehensive view of the project's development. This service proved invaluable for project managers and investors, offering them a clear and concise visual record of progress and any potential issues that needed addressing.

Check out my children's book about drones and construction HERE.

Impact and Community

Being a volunteer firefighter, I've seen firsthand how drones can be lifesavers. With thermal imaging, drones can quickly locate people in distress and provide crucial information to first responders. It's a powerful reminder of how technology can make a real difference in our communities.

Through NJLIC Drone Footage, I've connected with a vibrant community of drone enthusiasts. My Facebook and Instagram pages have become platforms for sharing insights, collaborating on projects, and learning from others. It's been a rewarding experience to be part of such a passionate community.

I've also had the opportunity to engage with the drone community both online and offline. Platforms like my Facebook page and Instagram account have allowed me to connect with fellow enthusiasts, share insights, and collaborate on projects. These interactions have been invaluable, providing a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey has been mentoring newcomers to the drone world. Sharing my experiences and helping others navigate the complexities of drone technology has been incredibly rewarding. It's amazing to see how quickly the community is growing and evolving, with new innovations and applications emerging all the time.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, I'm excited about the endless possibilities drones offer. I'm particularly interested in integrating drones with IoT and blockchain technologies to create innovative solutions in logistics and agriculture. The idea of autonomous drone networks communicating in real-time is something I'm eager to explore.

I also plan to expand NJLIC Drone Footage, offering advanced services like aerial inspections and environmental monitoring. By leveraging my software development skills, I aim to create custom solutions that meet my clients' unique needs.

Reflecting on my journey, I'm grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have come my way. Drones have not only enriched my professional life but have also given me a new perspective on the world. They've challenged me to think creatively and continuously push the boundaries of what's possible.

As I continue to explore the world of drones, I'm committed to learning, innovating, and sharing my knowledge with others. Whether it's through developing cutting-edge software, capturing breathtaking aerial footage, or contributing to community safety, I'm excited to see where this journey will take me next.

Let's Connect!

I invite you to join me on this exciting journey. Whether you're a fellow drone enthusiast, a potential client, or just curious about the technology, I'd love to connect with you. Follow my adventures on social media or visit my website, and let's discover the future of drones together.