The Gold Standard of Canadian Drone Training: Why VEdTS is the Premier RPAS Ground School

krdroneworks
Feb 3
3 min read

By: Colonel (ret) Bernie Derbach, KR Droneworks, 03 Feb 26

In the rapidly evolving landscape of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), the difference between a "drone pilot" and a professional aviator often comes down to one thing: training. While many schools offer the basics to pass a test, Veterans Elite Drone Training Services (VEdTS) has established itself as the best RPAS ground school in Canada by bringing a high-calibre, military-grade standard to the civilian drone industry.

What truly sets VEdTS apart isn't just their curriculum—it's their DNA. Led by a team of retired Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) officers and veterans, the school operates with a level of precision, discipline, and operational integrity that is rare in the commercial world.

The VEdTS Difference: Military Excellence in Civilian Airspace

While most training programs focus solely on Transport Canada’s regulations, VEdTS emphasizes the operational mindset required for complex missions. Their leadership team consists of seasoned veterans—including former RCAF pilots, aerospace engineers, and military police—who have spent decades operating in the world’s most demanding environments.

This leadership ensures that students aren't just learning to fly; they are learning to lead, manage risk, and execute missions with the same professionalism expected of a Canadian Forces pilot.

Veterans Training Veterans (And Beyond)

One of the most unique aspects of VEdTS is their "Veterans Training Veterans" approach. This philosophy creates a community of shared experience and mutual respect. However, this elite training isn't exclusive to former service members; the school welcomes all students who are serious about their RPAS career, allowing civilian pilots to benefit from the rigorous standards of veteran instructors.

For military members transitioning to civilian life, VEdTS goes above and beyond by providing administrative assistance to secure funding. They help navigate the process for:

VAC Short Course Funding (Education and Training Benefit)
SISIP / Manulife Training Benefits

By assisting with invoices and enrollment proof, VEdTS ensures that those who served can often access this world-class training at little to no out-of-pocket cost.

A National Network of Elite Instructors

VEdTS doesn't just exist on a screen. They boast a cadre of Trained RPAS Instructors and Flight Reviewers located strategically across Canada. This national presence is a game-changer for students, providing:

In-Person Advanced Ground School: A deeper dive into the "why" behind the regulations.
Hands-on Flight Instruction: Direct coaching to prepare students for the rigors of the Advanced Flight Review.
Regional Accessibility: Whether you are on the East Coast, the Prairies, or the West Coast, a VEdTS instructor is often nearby to provide face-to-face mentorship.

Pioneering the Future: Level 1 Complex Certification

As of late 2025, Transport Canada introduced the Level 1 Complex (L1C) Certification, a new tier for professional-grade missions and low-risk BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) operations.

Staying ahead of the curve, VEdTS has expanded their in-person program to include the L1C Ground School by teaming up with KR Droneworks. This partnership combines the technical depth of KR Droneworks with the instructional excellence of VEdTS. Furthermore, several VEdTS instructors and flight reviewers have already elevated their own certifications to the new L1C standard, ensuring that their students are learning from the most current and highly qualified experts in the country.

Summary: Why Choose VEdTS?

Elite Leadership: Directed by Canadian Forces veterans with decades of aviation experience.
Veteran Support: Dedicated help for VAC and SISIP funding applications.
Nationwide Reach: Local instructors and flight reviewers across Canada for in-person training.
Future-Proof: Leading the way in Level 1 Complex (L1C) certification through strategic partnerships.