Final Call: UAV Empower Scholarship Opens Doors for Students Driving Social Impact with Drones

Commercial UAV Expo offers full scholarships, mentorship, and networking opportunities for university students using UAS for good—applications due June 6.

by DRONELIFE Staff Writer Ian J. McNabb

The organizers of Commercial UAV Expo have announced their final call for submissions for the second annual UAV Empower: Path to Leadership Event Scholarship, designed to support university students who seek to use uncrewed aerial systems(UAS) to drive positive social and environmental change. Launched with a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive commercial drone industry, the scholarship provides students the opportunity to attend Commercial UAV Expo at Caesar’s Forum in Las Vegas. Applications are due June 6, 2025.

According to their recent press release, three students will be selected to receive a full event scholarship, including a conference pass granting access to all sessions, keynotes, networking events, and Indoor Airspace demonstrations. Recipients will also receive complimentary hotel accommodations, a travel stipend to assist with airfare, and personalized mentorship during the event to help them navigate the industry and build lasting professional relationships.

“We have already seen firsthand how much of a difference this scholarship can make for students who are just beginning to explore their place in the commercial drone industry,” said Jason Lavigne, Marketing Manager for Commercial UAV Expo. “It’s more than just an opportunity to attend the event, it’s an opportunity to build networks and give students a sense of belonging.”

“We are thrilled to bring back the UAV Empower: Path to Leadership Event Scholarship,” said Lora Burns, Commercial UAV Expo Scholarship Committee Chair. “This program reflects our commitment to providing access and opportunity to the next generation of drone leaders focused on using this technology to better their communities and beyond. By connecting students with mentors and giving them a platform to learn and grow, we hope to inspire future changemakers early in their careers.”

A committee of industry experts will oversee the selection process and help guide the Program’s continued development. This year’s committee includes Kat James, Founder of Four Hundred Feet, Eno Umoh, Co-founder of the Global Air Drone Academy, and Rebecca Lehman, Senior ESG & Social Impact Manager at DroneDeploy.

“In our second year, the demand for skilled drone talent is stronger than ever. This scholarship helps students see a future in the industry—where their passion and skills are both needed and can make a real impact,” said Lehman.

The scholarship is open to university students in the United States who are committed to using drone technology for good. Complete details, eligibility requirements, and application deadlines are available here. 

About Commercial UAV Expo

Commercial UAV Expo, presented by Commercial UAV News, is an international conference and expo exclusively focused on commercial UAS integration and operation. The event will take place September 2-4, 2025, at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, NV. For more information, visit www.expouav.com. Commercial UAV Expo is produced by Diversified’s technology portfolio, which also includes Commercial UAV News, Commercial UAV Forum, Geo Week, Geo Week Newsletter, Geo Business (UK), and Digital Construction Week (UK).

Read more:

• Korean Drones at CommUAV Expo: Why Korea’s Drone Industry is Racing Ahead
• 2025 Commercial UAV Expo Call for Speakers!
• Call for Unity and Legislative Progress at Commercial UAV Expo Keynote