Valgotech launches drone battery certification training program

Valgotech is rolling out an in-house certification program in Indianapolis to train technicians, engineers and hobbyists for the fast-growing U.S. drone industry. The company is pairing hands-on instruction with up to $30,000 in scholarships as manufacturers face a shortage of battery talent.

Why it matters: - Valgotech's program targets a key bottleneck in U.S. drone manufacturing: not enough workers are trained to build, test and diagnose UAV batteries. - The training is designed to support domestic production across defense, agriculture, logistics and public safety. - The initiative also aims to strengthen a homegrown talent pipeline for sensitive battery supply chains.

What happened: - Valgotech announced an in-house Drone Battery Certification Training Program on July 20, 2026, in Indianapolis. - The program is built to train technicians, engineers and hobbyists for jobs in UAV energy storage. - Valgotech said the certification track is meant to turn students into job-ready specialists for the drone industry.

The details: - The program has four tracks: Drone Battery Fundamentals; Advanced UAV Battery Manufacturing; Drone Battery Pack Assembly and Testing; and Electrochemical Testing and Battery Diagnostics. - The curriculum covers battery chemistry, cell types, safety protocols, production processes, materials handling, pack assembly, performance validation, failure diagnostics and quality assurance. - Training combines classroom instruction with hands-on work in Valgotech's battery prototyping facility. - Tuition ranges from $1,000 to $2,500 per student, depending on the track and course intensity. - Target trainees include high school students and graduates, undergraduate and graduate students, drone builders and hobbyists. - Valgotech is committing up to $30,000 in scholarship funding over two years. - Scholarship recipients will be chosen based on merit, financial need and demonstrated interest in energy storage or advanced manufacturing. - Program graduates will leave with recognized certifications and hands-on experience in drone battery manufacturing. - Interested students, educators and workforce development partners can apply for certification.

Between the lines: - The program reflects a broader push to reshore critical manufacturing capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign supply chains. - Valgotech is using education as a workforce strategy, not just a recruiting tool. - The scholarship fund lowers the cost barrier and helps the company widen access to technical training.

What's next: - Valgotech plans to use the program to build a pipeline of qualified talent for drone manufacturers nationwide. - That could support both established defense contractors and newer commercial drone startups. - Valgotech also expects to expand access through partnerships with educational institutions and workforce programs.

The bottom line: - Valgotech is betting that workforce training and scholarship support can help close the drone battery talent gap while reinforcing U.S. manufacturing.