Celebrating the Next Generation of Drone Industry Leaders

The future of aviation and unmanned systems depends on the passion, talent, and drive of the next generation—and this year’s scholarship recipients embody all of these qualities and more. From pursuing groundbreaking research to inspiring their peers, these individuals are already making their mark on the drone industry. The UAV Empower: Path to Leadership Event Scholarship was established to support university students who are passionate about using uncrewed aerial systems for social good, while also fostering a more inclusive and diverse community in the commercial drone industry.

This year’s scholarship awardees attending Commercial UAV Expo represent a remarkable group of students whose dedication and vision demonstrate what is possible when curiosity meets commitment.

From California, Luxary Crisostomo, an aerospace engineering major at Grossmont College, has turned her fascination with aviation technology into a purposeful journey in the drone industry. Driven by a passion for flight and a desire to make a difference, she has combined hands-on learning with leadership in her academic community, setting the stage for a promising career in unmanned systems.

At Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Belle Christianson is pursuing her studies with a clear focus on advancing aviation technology. Her work highlights the growing role of women in aerospace and reflects the power of determination and curiosity in shaping a career. With her strong technical knowledge and collaborative spirit, Belle stands out as a future leader in the field.

From Zimbabwe, Jesca Manyika (2024 recipient) exemplifies the global reach and impact of drone technology. At Zimbabwe Open University, her studies center on using unmanned systems to support communities through practical applications from agriculture to infrastructure monitoring. Her vision underscores how drones can play a vital role in addressing pressing challenges worldwide.

At George Mason University, Shahrukh Vasaya is exploring how unmanned systems can transform industries and unlock new opportunities for innovation. His academic and extracurricular pursuits reflect a deep commitment to applying drone technology for societal benefit, while his role as a mentor and advocate for his peers demonstrates his leadership both inside and outside the classroom.

Together, these scholarship recipients represent not just academic excellence but the passion, innovation, and inclusivity that will carry the drone industry forward. Their achievements remind us that the future of aviation is not only about advancing technology, but also about the people who will guide its growth.

In a brief meet-and-greet session taking place on the Summit Stage, Nina Shack, a scholarship recipient herself in 2024, lead a Q&A to ask the students their advice for others. Many mentioned the importance of persistence, speaking up, and finding a mentor that can support you so it doesn’t feel like you’re going alone. 

As the drone industry continues to evolve, Luxary, Belle, Shahrukh, and Jesca exemplify the next wave of leaders who will push boundaries, solve problems, and inspire others to reach new heights. It gives me so much hope for the future of drones as a force for good.