This program supports Indigenous peoples to reclaim their roles as the natural stewards of the skies, just as they have been stewards of the land and water since time immemorial. It has three, one-week modules, that will provide training in the following areas: Skills for Success, Digital Literacy, and Drone Pilot Training. This will ensure that Indigenous peoples are well supported in gaining the skills they need to participate in the digital economy. Sky Keepers will focus on people who are unemployed, underemployed and precariously employed to help them build skills to create a pathway to employment.

With an emphasis placed on acquiring an advanced drone operating certificate at the program’s completion, Sky Keepers participants receive safety certifications (WHMIS, Food Safe, and more) and computer training, financial literacy, cultural connection workshops, essential skills workshops and more.

Drone training for Sky Keepers is delivered by Aboriginal Training Services (ATS), an Indigenous-owned company developing training programs targeted specifically for the use of remote piloted aerial systems (RPAS, drones) in areas of consultation, surveying, and emergency management.