Texas Trailblazer Steffanie Rivers Launches First Black Woman-Owned Drone Academy to Help Others Soar

Breaking Barriers in the Drone Industry

Steffanie Rivers is making history as the first Black woman in Texas to own a drone academy. Her company, TCB Drones, is opening doors for people of color in the fast-growing drone industry. With certifications, career training, and high-paying opportunities, she’s proving that Black women belong in the skies—and deserve to get paid for it.

“Most of the time when I walk into an industry event, I’m one of the only Black women in the room,” Rivers said. “That’s exactly why I’m here—to change that.” Her mission is clear: empower underrepresented communities to take flight in a booming tech field.

From Hobby to High-Paying Career

Drones aren’t just for hobbyists anymore. FAA-certified pilots can earn $300–$500 per hour doing aerial photography, inspections, and search-and-rescue missions. Rivers is helping newcomers turn their curiosity into cash through TCB Drones’ training programs.

To kickstart careers, she’s hosting a free Zoom webinar on June 23, 2025, titled “From Hobby to Hustle: Master Drone Certification and Monetize Your Skills.” Attendees will learn how to get certified, land contracts, and stand out in a competitive market.

Training the Next Generation of Drone Pilots

Rivers isn’t just teaching adults—she’s inspiring future pilots too. Her programs include summer camps for high schoolers, online certification courses, and specialized training in aerial mapping and disaster response. Whether for veterans, career changers, or tech enthusiasts, TCB Drones offers a path to success.

She’s also partnered with organizations like Black and Missing, Inc. and the Dock Ellis Foundation to use drones for real-world impact. From finding missing persons to aiding safety efforts, Rivers proves drone tech can save lives.

A Rising Voice in the Drone Community

This fall, Rivers will take the spotlight as a featured panel moderator at the Commercial UAV Expo in Las Vegas. But her true passion is helping others at home. “Don’t be afraid to be the only one,” she urged. “You belong in this industry. Let’s make sure you’re also getting paid.”

With TCB Drones, Steffanie Rivers isn’t just flying high—she’s lifting others with her.