Meet DeMarius Simmons, an award-winning drone innovator, military veteran, and the founder of Southern Drone Company and Southern Drone Academy. After transitioning from military drone operations to precision agriculture technology and securing over six figures in grant funding, Simmons has launched Southern Drone Academy to expand access to professional drone education, entrepreneurship, and emerging technology careers within the Black and other underserved communities.
He first gained recognition in agriculture and forestry technology after developing an algorithm to count containerized pine seedlings using drone data. This innovation won the Winston Starts Grant Program and helped establish him as an emerging leader in precision agriculture. Building on this success, Simmons expanded into commercial applications including real estate, infrastructure inspection, GIS mapping, and public safety.
"Drone technology changed the direction of my life, and I want other people to understand that it can create opportunities for them as well," said Simmons. "With the right education, a drone becomes a business tool, a source of additional income, or the beginning of an entirely new career."
The academy was created in response to overwhelming interest from a county-wide children's drone camp, revealing a strong demand for accessible, career-focused drone education for teenagers and adults. With a growing demand for licensed drone pilots and the ability for students to be licensed at the age of 16, individuals are being equipped for entrepreneurship at a fast pace, with a cost-effective price. Serving students ages 15 and older, the Black- and veteran-owned online academy provides a structured pathway from FAA Part 107 exam preparation to professional application, covering aviation safety, flight planning, risk management, and business development.
Southern Drone Academy offers online instruction, live classes, and a Virtual Learning Community, preparing students for careers across agriculture, construction, emergency response, and utility inspection. Through these offerings, Simmons aims to develop a new generation of skilled drone professionals while expanding economic opportunities for underrepresented communities.
Individuals, businesses, and organizations interested in learning more can visit SouthernDroneAcademy.com
About
Southern Drone Academy is a Black- and veteran-owned drone education platform founded by commercial drone professional DeMarius Simmons. The academy provides FAA Part 107 education, entrepreneurship training, and industry-focused instruction for students ages 15 and older, preparing individuals and organizations for responsible participation in the commercial drone industry.
For press or business inquiries, contact support@southerndroneacademy.com