The Educational Service Center of Eastern Ohio, in partnership with Youngstown State University College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, will host the second annual Northeast Ohio Future Pilots Drone Showcase from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. April 28 at the Williamson Innovation Park.

The event will bring together 14 schools and more than 180 students from across the region who are enrolled in drone certification programs through the Unmanned Safety Institute. Participants are working toward earning their FAA Part 107 commercial drone pilot license, along with critical safety certifications, preparing them for careers in one of the fastest growing technology sectors.

The showcase will provide students with hands-on flight experience, real-world applications and opportunities to connect with industry professionals while exploring career pathways in drone technology and aviation.

“This event is about more than flying drones – it’s about launching futures,” said Sandy Furano, director of innovative workforce pathways at the Mahoning Valley Regional Council of Governments. “By connecting students with industry partners and real-world applications, we are helping them see the wide range of career opportunities available in the unmanned aircraft system field.”

Students will demonstrate their skills, engage with professionals and gain insight into career opportunities supported by a network of regional and national partners.

The event is supported by several partners, including the Unmanned Safety Institute, Marcraft, the United States Air Force, Warbuck’s Drone Services, the Mahoning County Sheriff Drone Unit, Pitsco Education, Critical Ops, First Choice Drone Solutions, the Austintown Fire Department Drone Team, Ground & Flight Media LLC, the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics, Youngstown State Workforce Education and Innovation and Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates.

For more information, contact the Educational Service Center of Eastern Ohio at (330) 533-8755.