Scholar overview
Scholar: Dom Willmore
Scholarship awarded: The Air League Drone Scholarship 2025, in partnership with Eagle Eye Innovations
Occupation: Maths teacher
Dom Willmore’s journey into aviation reflects a clear sense of purpose, developed over time through academic study, practical flying experience and a willingness to embrace new opportunities. Alongside his role as a maths teacher, he has steadily built a pathway into the aviation sector, with his Air League Drone Scholarship playing an important role in shaping both his confidence and career direction.
finding a way into aviation
For Dom, applying for an Air League Scholarship was a deliberate step towards turning that ambition into something tangible. Rather than focusing on a single pathway, he applied broadly, recognising that any exposure to the industry would help him develop both knowledge and clarity.
“Aviation has always been more than just a hobby for me, it’s been a long-term ambition.”
Being awarded the Drone Scholarship and later recognised as Eagle Eye Innovation’s (EEI’s) Drone Scholar of the Year at The Air League’s Scholarship Awards Reception, provided not only access to training, but also a sense of validation that he was moving in the right direction.
“It gave me structured insight into a rapidly developing area of the sector and became an important stepping stone in my wider aviation journey.”
a strong starting point
Before beginning his scholarship, Dom had already built a well-rounded aviation foundation. His degree in Astronautical and Aeronautical Engineering at the University of Southampton provided a strong technical understanding of aircraft systems, aerodynamics and the broader aerospace landscape.
This academic experience was complemented by his time with Southampton University Air Squadron, where he developed an appreciation for discipline, operational standards and the culture of aviation within a structured environment.
More recently, Dom completed his Private Pilot Licence (PPL), gaining hands-on flying experience and developing a practical understanding of airspace, navigation, and human factors. The Drone Scholarship allowed him to extend this experience into a new and increasingly important area of aviation.
Exploring the unmanned sector
Training with EEI introduced Dom to the professional realities of Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) operations and the responsibilities that come with them.
Through the A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC), he gained a detailed understanding of how drone operations are safely integrated into UK airspace. This included not only how to fly, but how to operate responsibly within a regulated environment, interpreting airspace, assessing risk, and making informed decisions before and during each flight.
For Dom, applying for an Air League Scholarship was a deliberate step towards turning that ambition into something tangible. Rather than focusing on a single pathway, he applied broadly, recognising that any exposure to the industry would help him develop both knowledge and clarity.
“Professional drone flying isn’t just about controlling the aircraft, it’s about decision-making, preparation and understanding the wider aviation environment.”
Crucially, the experience highlighted the role of regulatory bodies such as the CAA and reinforced the importance of compliance, accountability and safety culture, principles that are central across all areas of aviation.
a shift in perspective
One of the most significant outcomes of the scholarship was the way it broadened Dom’s perspective. While his earlier focus had been primarily on manned aviation, the programme exposed him to the scale and pace of development within the unmanned sector.
“It marked the point where aviation shifted from being an interest to becoming a serious long-term direction.”
This shift allowed him to think more strategically about his future. Rather than seeing aviation as a single pathway, he began to understand it as a diverse and evolving industry, with multiple entry points and specialisms.
The scholarship gave him the confidence to begin positioning himself within that landscape.
Applying skills in practice
The knowledge and mindset developed during the scholarship have already influenced Dom’s approach to aviation in practical ways. In his fixed-wing flight training, he applies structured planning techniques, enhanced airspace awareness and a disciplined approach to risk assessment.
This crossover between unmanned and manned aviation has reinforced the interconnected nature of the industry, showing how core principles, such as preparation, situational awareness and decision-making, are shared across different types of operations.
More broadly, the experience has helped embed a strong sense of professionalism that underpins his ongoing development.
balancing teaching, aviation
and giving back
Alongside his aviation ambitions, Dom continues to work full-time as a maths teacher, a role that has strengthened valuable transferable skills such as communication, organisation and mentorship.
Balancing a demanding teaching career with flight training and ongoing development in aviation has required discipline, resilience and long-term commitment.
“As a teacher, I see every day how important it is to provide clarity, encouragement and belief in someone’s potential.”
This ability to manage competing priorities reflects the same mindset needed to succeed within the aviation industry.
At the same time, Dom is passionate about supporting others who are considering a career in aviation, particularly those who may be unsure where to begin. Drawing on both his scholarship experience and his teaching background, he is keen to offer guidance and encouragement to those starting out.
By sharing honest insights and practical advice, Dom hopes to help others build confidence in their own potential and recognise the variety of pathways available into the industry.
Looking ahead
Dom is now preparing for the next phase of his journey. In the coming months, he plans to take a career break from teaching to travel and gain broader life experience, before returning with the intention of transitioning fully into aviation.
He is particularly interested in the role of RPAS operations within the wider aviation ecosystem, especially as the sector continues to grow and evolve. At the same time, he remains open to exploring different pathways, recognising the value of adaptability in such a dynamic industry.
“There isn’t just one ‘correct’ route into aviation.”
advice for future applicants
Dom encourages prospective applicants to approach the process with authenticity and curiosity. For him, the scholarship was not just about gaining a qualification, but about developing a deeper understanding of the industry and gaining the confidence to pursue it seriously.
“Apply. Even if you’re unsure of your exact path, the experience will give you clarity.”
