PHILIPSBURG:---Bureau Telecommunications and Post (BTP), in collaboration with the Office of Disaster Management (ODM), is proud to host an Advanced Drone Training from May 18 to May 20 at the Fire Department Sint Maarten for members of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Emergency Support Function (ESF) groups directly involved in disaster response and recovery operations.
This exclusive training serves as a follow-up to the highly successful and well-attended drone training organized in 2025. The previous session was very positively received by participants, particularly by members of the emergency services, several of whom have since acquired their own drones and are now actively utilizing them for specialized operational missions.
The upcoming training will combine both theoretical and practical components, focusing on important regulatory matters such as aviation rules, operational guidelines, safety protocols, and responsible drone usage, while also providing participants with hands-on practical exercises and simulated special mission scenarios.
The objective of the initiative is to ensure that Sint Maarten continues to develop and maintain a sufficient number of certified drone operators capable of supporting critical disaster recovery and emergency management operations. These operations include, but are not limited to, search and rescue missions, payload delivery, structural and building assessments, emergency mapping, and security surveillance during and after disasters.
Judianne Hoeve, Director of BTP, emphasized the importance of continued investment in innovation and disaster preparedness: “Drone technology continues to prove itself as an invaluable tool during emergencies and disaster recovery efforts. By investing in advanced training and certification of local operators, Sint Maarten is strengthening its national resilience and improving its ability to respond quickly, safely, and effectively during times of crisis.”
BTP would like to extend special thanks and appreciation to Fire Chief & National Disaster Coordinator Mr. Clive Richardson and the Office of Disaster Management, represented by Ms. Iesha Harrigan, for once again hosting the training group and making the training facilities available for this important initiative. The collaboration between BTP, ODM, emergency services, and regional drone professionals demonstrates Sint Maarten’s ongoing commitment to innovation, preparedness, and public safety.