Eszter Domina was working as a rain forest and peatland support officer when she did a drone course through the Women in Forestry Fund from Scottish Forestry.
She explained how the training worked and what a difference it has made to her:
“I did an introduction to drone surveys in forestry and agriculture which included thermal and multi-spectral imagery.
Applying for the funding was quick and straightforward, and as it was quite an expensive course, I wouldn’t have been able to pay for it myself.
The tutor was really good and I gained lots of practical knowledge. Humans can’t see infrared light, but drones can, so you can easily identify different species of plants, including invasive species like Rhododendron.
I already had a small drone and a basic knowledge, but the course gave me a love of flying, so I went out and bought a bigger one.
I still stay in touch with our tutor, as their enthusiasm and vast knowledge was inspiring, and am excited about the direction my career is going in now that I’m a competent drone operator.”
New applications to the Women in Forestry training fund are still welcome, but will now go on to a waiting list in case more funding becomes available.