Drone Technology is the Future of Job Site Management

Drone technology, also known as aerial vehicles, has become a game changer for the construction industry. Curious about what this technology can do and how it can improve your projects?

On today’s episode of the Mobile Workforce Podcast, host Mike Merrill chats with Keyona Wells, a freelance drone pilot and VDC specialist at Choate Construction, a technology-forward general contractor based in the Southeast. Tune in to hear Keyona break down the top ways drones are being used on job sites. She also gives her take on how drone technology is evolving and what this means for the construction industry.

Key Takeaways:

1. Drones are changing the scope of projects. On the jobsite, drones are replacing other technologies during the planning and construction phases of projects. Drones can photograph, map and scale any piece of land during pre-construction. During the construction phase, drones can be used to confirm structural integrity, materials on hand and track progress for owners and contractors. Drone technology is also an innovative marketing tool that allows owners, general contractors and subcontractors to show off their work with stunning media content like photos, videos, and time-lapse clips. The media can be used to supplement marketing campaigns, social media posts and promotional website content. 
2. Drone flight classes are worth the investment. All that’s required of a drone pilot is to take and pass a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) test, however, flight classes are still worth the investment and time. Flight classes are offered at local community colleges and community centers with large open fields for flying practice. Have your drone pilots get certified and receive hands-on training to be prepared for any possible situations they might experience in the field. 
3. Stay on top of FAA drone safety regulations. Safety is always the number one concern on a job site and that remains true for drones. There are strict rules that need to be followed to remain in compliance. As drone technology advances, the FAA continuously monitors and updates rules in regards to flying them. In years past, one of the rules used to be that you could never fly over people on the job site. Now, the FAA has loosened that rule issuing waivers to fly over active job sites. As this technology continues to advance those waivers will become even easier to acquire.