05 February 2024

The Droning Company is thrilled to announce our new chairman is drone legend Jon McBride (“The Drone Jesus”).  

Most recently the Vice President of Autel Robotics, McBride’s charisma, knowledge, business strategies, and no-nonsense approach to drone education and evangelism has made him one of the most trusted voices in our industry today. 

“We’re actually can’t believe this happened,” says Stuart Smith, founder and CEO of The Droning Company. “Having Jon believe in what we are doing to the point of his making a home here is both empowering and amazing. We’re so grateful to have such an experienced and thoughtful ‘drone celebrity’ guide us into the future.” 

In addition, The Droning Company thanks our retiring chairman Archie Galbraith, who for the past three years has helped us evolve into the premier media sites for drone news, reviews, and education. Galbraith is relocating back to the United Kingdom to spend more time with his family. We wish him all the best. 

McBride has already been meeting with the team to devise next steps for growth, impact, and service to the drone community.

"I am excited to have been asked to take on such an influential and important role with The Droning Company," says McBride. "I have worked with Stuart's staff in the past on video content to help experienced drone pilots and those still trying to make it through this emerging industry. Guiding an already seasoned team to help mold it into a better future for droners? Yes—that's exactly where I need to be." 

Visit The Droning Company regularly to keep track of the exciting things happening next for our pilots, our supporters, our readers, and the industry. The sky’s the limit!  

Watch Chris Fravel and Jon McBride Discuss the Future