IEG Staff Advance with Commercial Drone Licences for Next-Gen Construction

Three staff members from Stamford College's Construction Department, part of the Inspire Education Group, have achieved advanced drone pilot certifications from the Drone Pilot Academy. Phil Lakta, Tom Deignan, and Sam Van Den Berg Roberts are now certified drone pilots, representing a significant achievement for the department as they expand their expertise in advanced construction technologies.

The trio's success is a testament to the world-class training provided by the Drone Pilot Academy, led by Director Jim Ixer. This collaboration has been instrumental in equipping the staff to integrate drone technology seamlessly into the construction industry. Their new qualifications will enable them to introduce innovative drone operations into the curriculum, offering students hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology.

This announcement comes alongside our investment in the Centre for Green Technology (CGT), further solidifying our commitment to innovation and preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow. The CGT is part of our strategy to equip learners with the skills necessary to succeed in future-focused careers, particularly in green industries. Our investment aligns with the UK Government’s 2050 net-zero goals and its Green Jobs Delivery Group, which aims to accelerate the growth of green industries and ensure the workforce is ready to meet the demands of the green economy. Through this initiative, we are positioning students to be leaders in sustainable development and green technologies.

The project has been partly funded by Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA), providing £2.471 million via the Transforming Cities Fund and £400,000 from the Local Growth Fund, further to the £1.9 million package from Peterborough City Council via the Towns Fund.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Jim Ixer and the Drone Pilot Academy for their ongoing support in propelling IEG to the forefront of education and industry relevance. By incorporating drone technology into the classroom, the College reaffirms its commitment to providing students with the skills demanded by today's construction industry.

This achievement will not only elevate the department's capabilities but also open up new avenues for collaboration with local businesses and industry partners, further bridging the gap between academia and professional practice.