Corpsmembers Take Flight, Train with Drones

It’s a bird, it’s a plane … no wait, it’s a drone!! In the California Conservation Corps, young adults are setting their sights high, learning the basics of drone operations.

“I’m really happy that I’m taking the class because I get to learn how to fly, map, and everything,” said Corpsmember Jalissa Ramirez. “We do a lot of mapping outside, so it definitely could help us map quicker than doing it by hand.”

Through a course offered by Sierra College, Corpsmembers are learning how these aircraft can monitor forest health and identify hotspots during wildfires. This technology can be leveraged to protect California’s historic and iconic landscapes.

“The reason I joined the CCC was because of the training and natural resource work we do. I knew I was going to be able to get hands on experience while also helping the people of California,” said Corpsmember Stephen Jarvis. “It’s one of the best things I could have done for my career.”

In the CCC, the sky is the limit – the group not only gained a birds-eye-view (thanks to the drone’s camera system) but also identified potential careers they could launch next!

This is just one of many paid opportunities that young adults, ages 18-25, are gaining as they explore careers in fire, forestry, fisheries, habitat restoration, and more!