Practical Insights from Edge Drone Services: Growing a Drone Business in Florida

Guest blog by Drone Business owners. Edge Drone Services was founded in 2017 with the intention of bringing those they serve to new heights. Based in Tampa Bay, Florida, they specialize in high-quality aerial data collection across multiple industries, from construction to agriculture.

Read our new guest blog featuring leading drone business owners. Meet Matt Harvey and Mitchell Baldwin from Edge Drone Services, a Tampa Bay-based drone services company specializing in professional aerial photography, mapping, and data collection.

1. Diversify Across Industries

What started off serving one industry has now expanded to a multitude of sectors. Our ability to adapt our drone services across construction, agriculture, environmental protection, utilities, and events has been crucial to our growth. We provide high-resolution aerial imagery, topographic mapping, 3D modeling, and volumetric analysis that significantly improve planning and execution across various projects. By diversifying our service offerings, we've built resilience into our business model.

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2. Invest in Professional Certifications

Professional certifications are essential for standing out in the drone industry. Our team holds Part 107 pilot certifications, Level 1 sUAS Thermographer qualifications, and FSESCI (The Florida Stormwater, Erosion, and Sedimentation Control Inspector Program) certifications. These credentials enable us to perform specialized inspection duties and ensure our services meet the highest industry standards. Continuous education and certification have been key to our success in serving clients across Florida and beyond.

3. Focus on Relationship Building

We are firm believers that we are in the business of people and strive to ensure each relationship is treated like family. This philosophy has helped us build a substantial client base ranging from Fortune 500 companies to small businesses. Professional relationships built on trust and reliability have been the cornerstone of our growth. By providing premier customer service and treating each client with personal attention, we've created an environment where referrals and repeat business flourish.

4. Scale Beyond Geographic Boundaries

While we proudly serve the Greater Tampa Bay Area, we've successfully expanded our operations across Florida and into other states. Project locations now include California, North Carolina, and more. Being adaptable and willing to travel for projects has significantly expanded our client base and diversified our experience. Remote drone operations capability has been instrumental in this expansion, allowing us to serve clients regardless of location.

5. Maintain Operational Excellence

With several thousand hours of UAS missions flown, we've developed streamlined processes that ensure consistent results. Our experience has taught us that maintaining the highest quality standards in data collection and analysis sets us apart in a competitive market. By investing in quality equipment and continuously refining our methodologies, we deliver superior results that keep clients coming back.

6. Stay at the Cutting Edge

Staying current with technological advancements in drone technology is essential for continued success. By maintaining a forward-thinking approach, we position our business to take advantage of new capabilities as they emerge. This commitment to innovation ensures that we continue to provide clients with the most effective solutions available in the drone industry.

Business Profile

Professional Bio:

Edge Drone Services was founded in 2017 with the intention of bringing those they serve to new heights. What started serving one industry has now expanded to multiple sectors. The company provides high-quality aerial data collection, mapping, and analytical services to clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to small businesses across Florida and beyond. Their team holds multiple certifications including Part 107, Level 1 sUAS Thermography, and FSESCI, enabling them to provide specialized inspection services with an emphasis on professionalism and expertise.

Team Member Bios:

Matt Harvey has been with Edge Drone Services since its inception in May 2017. Born and raised in Florida, Matt is a proud Navy brother who graduated from the University of South Florida with a degree in Business Management, with minors in Entrepreneurship and Political Science. He also holds an Executive Certification in Strategy and Innovation from the MIT Sloan School of Management. Matt specializes in fully remote drone operations and has flown several thousand hours of UAS missions. His certifications include Part 107, Level 1 sUAS Thermographer, and FSESCI.

Mitchell Baldwin joined Edge Drone Services in April 2024. A graduate of the University of South Florida with a degree in History specializing in Research and Development, Mitch comes from three generations of pilots with a strong background in aviation. He holds certifications in both Part 107 and FSESCI, bringing valuable expertise to the team's operations.

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