About Us
Stinson Aerial Services Inc. (SAS), through its AIRS™ Flight Academy division, is a leader in professional drone training and certification. We specialize in transforming certified RPAS pilots into capable, industry-ready professionals through hands-on, scenario-based education and mentorship from experienced aviation personnel.
Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Ground School Instructor to deliver RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems) training programs at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in Kamloops, BC. The ideal candidate will bring real-world aviation and instructional experience to support the next generation of commercial drone pilots.
Key Responsibilities
Primary Instruction Duties
- Deliver 5-day Basic and Advanced RPAS courses during weekdays at TRU
- Facilitate evening Basic courses (Mon–Fri, 6:00–9:00 PM) over a two-week cycle
- Lead Saturday flight training sessions (as part of evening course cycle)
- Provide hands-on RPAS flight training using AIRS-standard platforms and curriculum
Curriculum Delivery & Development
- Teach Transport Canada-compliant RPAS curriculum
- Integrate operational aviation experience into lessons
- Develop and teach real-world flight scenarios and safety protocols
- Support curriculum updates based on evolving regulations and technology
- Provide feedback on student performance and course effectiveness
Qualifications
Required
- Minimum 3 years of professional aviation experience (military or commercial)
- Strong background in navigation, flight ops, or related field
- Valid Transport Canada RPAS pilot certificate (Basic or Advanced)
- Documented RPAS operational flight experience
- Demonstrated instructional or training experience (ground or flight)
- Excellent verbal communication and classroom management skills
- Availability for evening and Saturday instruction
Preferred
- Background as a Canadian Armed Forces Navigator or Pilot
- Experience with a variety of RPAS platforms and flight applications
- Familiarity with Transport Canada aviation and RPAS regulations
- Post-secondary education in aviation, engineering, or related field
- Prior ground school or flight instruction experience
Work Location & Schedule
Primary Location
- Based in Kamloops, BC (preferred)
- Training conducted on-site at Thompson Rivers University
Schedule Commitment
- Weekday Programs: 5 consecutive days (daytime delivery)
- Evening Courses: Two-week cycle, Mon–Fri, 6:00–9:00 PM
- Flight Training: Saturdays during evening course cycles
- Flexibility: Required to accommodate course expansion or additional demand
What We Offer
Professional Development
- Structured mentorship with experienced AIRS instructors
- Shadowing two Basic courses (Sept 22–26, 2025) before instructing
- Access to cutting-edge drone technology and simulation tools
- Opportunities for curriculum development and leadership roles
- Pathway to permanent employment
- Clear advancement opportunities to lead course development, deliver specialty training (e.g., BVLOS, mapping, inspection), or expand AIRS programs across BC
- Professional development opportunities through certification upskilling, community engagement, and instructor training pathways
Compensation & Support
- Competitive contract compensation
- Travel/accommodation support for non-local candidates
- Flexible schedule and workload to support other commitments
- All mentorship and shadowing sessions are compensated
- Professional and academic teaching environment at TRU
Teaching Philosophy & Team Culture
- AIRS emphasizes scenario-based, hands-on learning that prepares students for real-world drone operations
- Our instructors draw from military, commercial aviation, and RPAS experience to deliver high-impact lessons
- The teaching team is collaborative and committed to mentorship, safety, and supporting learners of all backgrounds, including partnerships with Indigenous communities
- Instructors are encouraged to contribute feedback, refine curriculum, and help shape the future of drone education in Canada
Application Process
To Apply, Submit:
- Resume highlighting aviation and instructional background
- Cover letter outlining aviation/military/RPAS experience
- Copies of relevant certifications (e.g., RPAS license, aviation licenses)
- Professional references related to aviation or instruction
Selection Process
- Initial screening based on qualifications and experience
- Interview (may include sample teaching demonstration)
- Reference and certification verification
- Shadowing begins September 22–26, 2025, with mentorship transition into full instructor role
Ideal Candidate
A retired or experienced Canadian Armed Forces Navigator, RPAS professional, or aviation instructor who is passionate about training and safety. Committed to mentorship, high-quality instruction, and equipping students with real-world drone operation knowledge.
Stinson Aerial Services Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for interviews will be contacted.