Chris Swenson
- Drone Pilot
- AAI
School Information
School: University of Utah
College Major: Business
Years at College Works: 2004 to 2006
Career Information
Working For: AAI
Title: Drone Pilot
Industry: Aerospace/Aviation
Brief Description of Duties / Responsibilities:
I operate one of the most widely used UAV’s in support of US and coalition forces in the Logar province of Afghanistan as a civilian contractor.
What Has Been Your Proudest Accomplishment Post-CWP?My children.
College Works Career Impact
In one sentence, what has CW meant to you?
I realized many of the benefits of having worked through College Works Painting during and after, as the experience helped sharpen and refine many skills I already had. I have been away for approximately 6 years, and can draw lines from current successes back to challenges I faced while there. I enjoyed my experience, and would still encourage anyone to take advantage of the opportunity.
How did your CW experience impact your career? Immediately after graduation? Now?
My career goals were not directly related to the College Works Painting experience, but it absolutely helped me purchase flight hours I could not have had the means to acquire otherwise.
What was the greatest lesson you learned from your CW experience?
That I am not a business owner personality. I learned I really like working as a part of a team, playing a role and bringing the value I have to the table.
Advice
What advice do you have for potential CW participants? Current CW participants?
Suck it up. Work harder because your days are limited.
What’s your best advice for someone interested in entering your career field?
Save your money, because flight training is very expensive! UAV’s are a large industry that is on the cusp of exploding into national airspace. Those with traditional education, manned and unmanned experience stand to be in very high demand.
What’s your favorite memory from CW?
Receiving the College Works Painting Branch Manager of the Year award in Cancun. I actually went there not thinking I would even be considered for it, so it was a very pleasant surprise and an honor.
Last words of wisdom?
IF YOU DON’T FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS, YOU WILL SPEND THE REST OF YOUR LIFE WORKING FOR SOMEONE WHO DID.