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Navigating the Skies of Entrepreneurship: My Journey as Co-Owner of Birds Eye Aerial Drones

Entrepreneurship is often described as a journey, and in my experience, that description couldn’t be more accurate. As you might guess, the path of building and running a business is filled with twists, turns, and the occasional turbulence. Also it’s a journey that has been immensely rewarding. As the co-owner of Birds Eye Aerial Drones (BEAD), the privilege of navigating this journey has been amazing. We’ve witnessed firsthand the impact that innovation, perseverance, and a strong vision can have on an industry.

 

Starting Up: A Vision Takes Flight

To begin, BEAD was founded in 2014. At that time our goal was clear. Primarily it was to harness the power of drone technology to revolutionize the way industries approach aerial imaging and data collection. There was a gap in the market where traditional methods were not only costly and time-consuming but also posed significant safety risks. Our combined backgrounds and my passion for entrepreneurship provided an opportunity. BEAD would provide safer, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable solutions.

Honestly, starting a business is never easy, and doing so in a field that was, at the time, still emerging, added to the challenge. Yet, those challenges fueled our determination to establish BEAD as a leader in the industry. We were pioneers, not just in drone technology, but in how we approached business itself—placing a strong emphasis on quality, safety, and sustainability.

Growth and Innovation: The BEAD Journey

Over the years, BEAD has grown far beyond our initial expectations. What started as a small operation has expanded into a company that has inspected over half a million utility assets and worked across multiple sectors. Sectors such as Utilities, AEC, Environmental, and Communications. This growth didn’t happen overnight. It was the result of hard work, a relentless focus on excellence, and a willingness to adapt and innovate. These are the ingredients of entrepreneurship.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been seeing the tangible impact of our work. From helping to maintain aging infrastructure to supporting the development of new projects. BEAD has played a crucial role in shaping the future of several industries. It’s this ability to make a real difference that keeps me passionate about what we do.

 

Women in Leadership: Breaking Barriers

Being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry has its own set of challenges, but it also provides unique opportunities. Throughout my journey with BEAD, Commitment to not only carving out a space for myself but also creating opportunities for other women in the industry has been very important. Whether it’s through our training programs for women pilots or our involvement in initiatives supporting diversity, BEAD has demonstrated the importance of amplifying women’s voices and breaking down barriers.

The Ingredients of Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship has taught me the value of resilience, the power of collaboration, and the importance of supporting one another. I’ve learned leadership isn’t just about steering the ship; it’s about empowering others to navigate alongside you. In the drone industry, as in any other, diversity of thought and experience is crucial for innovation and growth.

The Importance of Recognition and Support

Running a business is demanding. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day challenges. That’s why moments of recognition, like being featured in Women’s Enterprise USA Magazine, mean so much. This article was not just a personal milestone, but also a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire BEAD team. I am incredibly grateful to Women’s Enterprise USA Magazine for the opportunity to share our story. To inspire others who are navigating their own entrepreneurial journeys.

Their spotlight on BEAD not only highlights the strides we’ve made as a company but also reinforces the importance of visibility for women in business. We need more platforms like Women’s Enterprise USA Magazine. Platforms that celebrate and support women’s entrepreneurship, giving us the recognition we deserve and the motivation to keep pushing boundaries.

Looking Ahead: The Future of BEAD and Women in Entrepreneurship

Looking to the future, I’m filled with excitement for what lies ahead for BEAD. Continuously exploring new ways to innovate, expand our services, and contribute positively to the industries we serve is an ethos at BEAD. But beyond business growth, I’m also deeply committed to continuing my work in supporting women in entrepreneurship.

Every woman who has the courage to start her own business, to innovate, and to lead, is helping to reshape the landscape of our economy and our society. It’s a privilege to be part of this movement.  I’m eager to see more women take to the skies of entrepreneurship. To stand in the company of so many strong, wonderful women who I personally know to be doing just this is a huge honor! Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey.  With a special thank you to Women’s Enterprise USA Magazine for their support and recognition. Here’s to many more years of growth, innovation, and empowerment!

Birds Eye Aerial Drones

Birds Eye Aerial Drones

Scott Painter, CEO of Birds Eye Aerial Drones, LLC, a veteran-owned business, brings over 30 years of flight experience to his company. After a 24-year career in Naval Aviation and 4 years with Lockheed Martin in Afghanistan, Painter launched the company in 2014, merging his passions for flying and technology. His team specializes in providing detailed aerial data and imagery for various industries, utilizing a diverse fleet of aircraft equipped with advanced imaging technologies. EDUCATION M.B.A. Aviation, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University B.S. Aviation Management, Southern Illinois University