Behind every successful training program is someone who understands what learners need to succeed. For Volatus Aerospace, one of those people is Lee Dodson, Vice President of Training & Development. We are proud to showcase Lee in our latest Voices of Volatus feature.
Lee has been part of Volatus since its earliest days, following the merger of his company, Skygate Drone Services with Volatus Aerospace. His work helped establish the foundation of our academy while supporting drone service operations across Eastern Canada.
Drawn to the opportunity to teach, Lee is passionate about helping people understand and apply emerging technologies to solve real-world challenges.
Lee has also been a driving force behind the development and delivery of Volatus Academy’s Task Force Drone program. His immersive, scenario-based teaching style, grounded in real-world field experience, plays an important role in helping participants move beyond certification and develop the practical skills required for civilian drone operations.
Read on to learn more about Lee’s career, his experiences in training and what continues to inspire his work.
What do you enjoy most about working with your team?
I enjoy working with a talented team that supports one another and shares a commitment to innovation and delivering great results.
What is one project or accomplishment at Volatus you are especially proud of?
I’m especially proud of developing our online training content, which has grown over the years into a comprehensive program covering basic and advanced drone skills, as well as advanced curricula for both online and in-person training.
What excites you most about the work you do?
I’m most excited by the opportunities to travel and teach, helping people build the skills and confidence to safely and effectively use drone technology in real-world applications.
What first sparked your interest in aerospace, aviation, drones, autonomy or technology?
My interest in drones grew from working with underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and learning about autonomous technology. Combined with my background in electronics and telecommunications, and my passion for creative photography and cinematography, it was a natural progression into the world of drones.
What skills or experiences have shaped your career the most?
My background in electronics, combined with extensive experience in technical training, operating remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), developing drone training programs, and teaching throughout the world, has shaped my career the most. These experiences have strengthened both my technical expertise and my passion for helping others develop their skills.
How would you describe the culture at Volatus?
Volatus has a collaborative and innovative culture. We’re a team that embraces new technologies and works together to deliver practical solutions for clients, while advancing the use of drones and autonomous systems.
What’s something people may be surprised to learn about you?
People may be surprised to learn that I’m an Ocean Yachtmaster and transatlantic sailor. Sailing on an 80-foot Whitbread Maxi-class racing yacht has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life, strengthening my skills in teamwork, decision-making, and navigating complex situations in extreme conditions.
What is the best career advice you’ve received?
Never stop learning and don’t be afraid to try.
Building Careers Beyond Certification: Task Force Drone
Designed specifically for military veterans transitioning into civilian careers, Task Force Drone is a comprehensive, multi-part program that combines intensive hands-on training with business development support. The five-day in-person course covers Transport Canada Advanced RPAS certification, practical flight training and industry applications including thermal imaging, infrastructure inspection, photogrammetry and real estate media production.
Participants also receive a new training drone, discounts toward their first enterprise drone purchase and access to a six-week online course that provides step-by-step guidance on building a drone business. Together, these elements give veterans the technical knowledge, practical experience and confidence needed to pursue meaningful opportunities in the growing drone industry.
The next Task Force Drone program begins September 8, 2026, at Volatus Aerospace’s facility in Mirabel, Quebec. Visit Volatus Academy to learn more.
Discover more stories from across Volatus Aerospace and meet the people whose expertise, dedication and ideas are helping move our organization forward. Explore more Voices of Volatus employee profiles.
