Flightwerx Launches Drone Skill Development Facility in Daleville

Flightwerx Alabama is forging the future of flight by opening a facility in Daleville to train Fort Rucker soldiers to use unmanned aerial systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. The entire project took 30 days to complete, from the initial idea discussed by Brigadier General Ken Cole and Colonel Michael H. Gourgues to the investment of several community leaders and economic development professionals across Southeast Alabama.

“This project is a testament to the strength of the community,” says Charisse Stokes, President of Tidal IT Solutions. “They championed the effort and launched this project within the 30-45 day window.”

Phase One of Flightwerx is complete, and Fort Rucker soldiers will now have a place to train on UAS. The next step is to launch Phase Two, which will have an equally big impact on the future of Dale County. Learn more about this project and why it is invaluable. 

Phase One Provides Skills Development for Evolving Technology

The goal of Flightwerx is to create a facility dedicated to testing, training, and developing UAS. Soldiers can become familiar with drone technology while identifying ways to improve it.

“The use of drones in Ukraine has honestly kept them in the fight, and we started looking at the local environment to see if we had space to innovate and train,” says Stokes. “Pilots frequently train to grow their skills, and now there will be a fleet of individuals working on drones.”

Stokes emphasizes that drone technology is rapidly evolving and that the United States military needs to stay on top of its capabilities. Flightwerx will provide a dedicated location where drones can be the main focus for training and development. 

Phase Two Will Be a Collaboration for STEM Education

Not only does Dale County benefit from the new Flightwerx facility, but there are additional investment opportunities as the project enters Phase Two. This phase will create an environment for K-12 STEM education and other innovation opportunities. Students can learn about drones, the math and science behind them, and explore potential career paths that use them. It will be an invaluable field trip destination in the region, especially for JROTC students.

“When high school students consider joining the military, they picture themselves holding a gun on the front lines,” says  Melody Lee, Executive Director of Grow Southeast Alabama. “But they can enter the engineering, medical, and computer science fields through military pathways. Phase Two will help students see how they can develop their skills and pursue careers through this option.”

Phase Two will also create partnerships with academic institutions. Flightwerx plans to collaborate with the University of Alabama, Auburn University, and Troy University to bring in drone researchers and experts on this technology.

“Fort Rucker ingraining itself deeper into the community is a win-win for the entire Wiregrass region,” says Lee. 

Dale County Benefits from Its Proximity to Fort Rucker

Daleville was a top contender for Flightwerx locations because of its proximity to Fort Rucker. The town is less than three miles from the fort, less than a 10-minute drive. This location makes it easy for soldiers to leave the base for UAS training.  

However, Flightwerx wasn’t just successful because of its location; the entire community came together to open this facility in a matter of weeks. Various stakeholders considered multiple buildings for the project and eventually selected a warehouse in the Daleville Industrial Complex. The minor renovations needed to open Flightwerx started immediately, with all hands working to make the project happen.

Specifically, Cynthia Crutchfield, CEO of Innovate Alabama, immediately became involved in the project and helped champion funding for the pilot portion. The Friends of Fort Rucker contributed $15,000 along with the City of Dothan.

“The City of Dothan stands by the project and knows the role that Fort Rucker plays in the regional economy,” says Lee. “Even though the project isn’t within Dothan City Limits, its local leaders want to see the region grow.”

Additionally, the City of Daleville was actively involved in bringing Flightwerx to life. Mayor Jayme Stayton was on-site during its development, troubleshooting problems and pulling resources. 

This Could Launch a Larger Defense and Aerospace Economy

Flightwerx is just one opportunity coming to Dale County. There is additional space in the Daleville Industrial Complex for more defense companies and military service providers. This complex could become an innovation hub for the United States military, supporting Fort Rucker and American soldiers worldwide. 

As Dale County grows into an innovation hub, it can attract talented individuals and their families. More people can move to Southeast Alabama and discover the beauty and support of this community.

“I am so excited for the entire region,” says Lee. “Flightwerx is going to have a spot in Daleville for the soldiers and potentially a spot in Ozark for the community. This is just the starting point.” 

Watch Dale County, Alabama, Grow

Dale County is positioned for growth due to its proximity to Fort Rucker, its access to Dothan, and its location in the heart of Southeast Alabama. More companies are discovering this community and bringing opportunities here.

Learn more about opportunities in the region through the Ozark-Dale Economic Development Corporation. See how this team connects stakeholders and brings community leaders together to benefit residents. Contact us today, and let’s grow together.