Meet the team: Luke Penny, UAS Pilot at Evolve Dynamics

Have you always wanted to be a drone pilot?

Since I was around 15 years old. Back then I imagined myself working in the media industry, but as drones have grown across so many sectors, the opportunities have expanded far beyond what I expected. It’s been amazing to follow that evolution.

Describe a typical day in your role.

No two days are ever the same, which is one of the things I enjoy most. A day might involve planning and preparing aircraft, running flight operations, testing new systems, supporting the R&D team, or being out on-site delivering training. It’s a great mix of hands-on flying, technical problem-solving, and teamwork.

What’s your favourite part of being a drone pilot?

The best part is the blend of technology and purpose. I get to work with advanced systems while also seeing the direct impact of what we do. I also enjoy meeting and working with people from all walks of life – it’s a career that constantly broadens your perspective.

What is the most memorable job of your career?

My most memorable job was in Gabon, Africa. I flew by helicopter deep into the jungle and spent two weeks travelling through remote areas to conduct methane surveys using a drone. Along the way we saw elephants, monkeys, and all kinds of wildlife. It was an incredible experience, both technically challenging and personally unforgettable. 

In your eyes, what sets Evolve Dynamics apart in the industry?

Evolve Dynamics stands out for its focus on reliability, mission-readiness, and building aircraft with real-world operational needs in mind. The team is deeply collaborative and always pushing for innovation that genuinely helps end users – not just innovation for its own sake. That mindset makes a big difference.

What advice would you give someone who wants to become a professional drone pilot?

Enjoy flying drones to begin with, and everything else will follow. I started out as a hobbyist and later became a commercial UAV pilot. Hands-on experience with different systems is key, and you can even start with a free flight simulator. There’s also tons of free content online to help you learn. Stay curious and keep practising.

What advancements in drone technology do you hope to see in the future?

I’m particularly excited to see advancements in drone technology within the defence sector, especially in endurance, autonomy, and advanced sensor integration. As drones become smarter and more resilient, they will enhance surveillance, intelligence gathering, and battlefield awareness, while reducing risks to personnel.