Our Story
In the beginning, there was a “Mom with a Drone.” Named after Amelia Earhart, a pilot who pioneered a movement in the male-dominated aviation field, Rhianna Lakin founded the Amelia Dronehart RC Copter Group to provide a space for women who fly single and multi-rotor drones. The goal: to connect and inspire.
From 2015 – 2018, members gathered around the globe, formed lifelong friendships, and received exposure from the likes of VICE Magazine, Drone360, CES and DJI’s media channels for their hard work and talent. Then everything got unexpectedly quiet on the leadership front.
Fast forward to 2025. Founding member Stacy Weskerna Garlington noticed Kara Murphy’s resurrection efforts as an admin in Drone Community, one of the largest Facebook forums for drone professionals and enthusiasts around the globe. She invited Murphy to be an admin for the private Amelia Dronehart – Women’s Drone Group.
"I've been in the drone industry, since 2020, surrounded by males. It has been awesome connecting with females, finally! Not that's there's anything wrong with the men, it just hits different with the girls."
Much to everyone’s surprise, the 1,100-plus members were thrilled to see renewed activity and its resulting momentum in their beloved community.
Today, with her permission, we are building on the brilliant foundation Rhianna created back at the beginning of 2015. By expanding outside of our private group to a web presence, our goal is to continue building a supportive community while creating visibility for women where it is sorely needed.
Depending on the source, women make up about 8% of drone pilots in the United States. There is still a substantial imbalance in the gender ratio. Amelia Dronehart believes that highlighting the accomplishments and career journeys of women in all sectors of the drone industry will inspire younger generations and others interested in entering the field. Sometimes you need to see it to believe you can do it.
"I started with the original Phantom in 2014 and soon realized many drone FB (Facebook) sites were toxic. AD was one site I felt comfortable in sharing my journey of starting my Drone Service Providing business in August 2016 after taking the Part 107 exam on the first day, in the first hour it was offered. (There's an) incredible bunch of talented ladies here!"
We are a group of women from all different walks of life, and disciplines, here to support each other, learn, grow, and inspire. We hope you’ll join on us on this journey.
Amelia Dronehart is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
