Hi, I’m Kyle Gifford, a licensed RPAS drone pilot with 6+ years of experience delivering safe, compliant, and decision-ready aerial data for insurers, engineers, and media clients. I specialize in aerial inspections, property and infrastructure assessments, and high-quality aerial media across varied environments. With a CAD/engineering background, I bring site awareness and precise reporting to every project, plus a strong focus on aviation safety, risk management, and regulatory compliance. I enjoy turning complex field data into clear deliverables that help stakeholders move from data to action.

KYLE GIFFORD

Hi, I’m Kyle Gifford, a licensed RPAS drone pilot with 6+ years of experience delivering safe, compliant, and decision-ready aerial data for insurers, engineers, and media clients. I specialize in aerial inspections, property and infrastructure assessments, and high-quality aerial media across varied environments. With a CAD/engineering background, I bring site awareness and precise reporting to every project, plus a strong focus on aviation safety, risk management, and regulatory compliance. I enjoy turning complex field data into clear deliverables that help stakeholders move from data to action.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Kyle Gifford, a licensed RPAS drone pilot with 6+ years of experience delivering safe, compliant, and decision-ready aerial data for insurers, engineers, and media clients. I specialize in aerial inspections, property and infrastructure assessments, and high-quality aerial media across varied environments.

With a CAD/engineering background, I bring site awareness and precise reporting to every project, plus a strong focus on aviation safety, risk management, and regulatory compliance. I enjoy turning complex field data into clear deliverables that help stakeholders move from data to action.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Technical Support & Workshop Operations at Otahuhu College
January 1, 2025 - Present
Support technical workshops with a strong focus on equipment safety, risk control, and operational readiness. Maintain tools and machinery, reducing downtime and ensuring compliance with safety standards. Produce CAD diagrams and visual aids to support technical demonstrations and spatial understanding. Reinforces strong habits in procedural compliance, safety documentation, and equipment care.
Technology Technician / Tutor at Otahuhu College – Auckland, NZ
January 1, 2025 - June 11, 2025
Co-led multi-material technology workshops, mentoring students in woodwork and fabrication projects such as side tables and outdoor games. Designed step-by-step construction plans, CAD mockups, and instructional diagrams to support student learning. Maintained workshop safety by managing PPE, pre-cutting materials, and enforcing best practices. Troubleshot design and build issues with students, promoting practical solutions and creative thinking. Oversaw machinery operation and upkeep, ensuring all tools remained safe and student ready.
Junior Draughtsman (Engineering Support) at Precision Pumps and Engineering
January 1, 2024 - December 1, 2024
Produced 150+ accurate 2D and 3D CAD drawings supporting mechanical manufacturing and assembly. Developed assemblies, BOMs, and visual documentation used for production and client review. Supported CNC engraving and workshop operations, building practical site awareness relevant to industrial inspections.
Junior Draughtsman at Precision Pumps and Engineering – Pinetown, SA
January 1, 2024 - December 31, 2024
Produced 2D/3D mechanical drawings using AutoCAD and Inventor. Created part assemblies, BOMs, and rendered animations to support design reviews. Enhanced mechanical layouts and converted sketches to professional CAD outputs. Operated engraving machines and supported inventory control on the production floor.
Drone Videographer & Aerial Media Operator at Gifford Media
January 1, 2018 - December 1, 2023
Planned and executed drone missions for wildlife, documentary, and commercial media projects, including Sardine Run coverage. Captured stabilised aerial footage for broadcast and online platforms (YouTube, DSTV). Managed full production workflow: flight planning, filming, post-processing, and client delivery. Operated safely in dynamic, remote, and environmentally sensitive locations.
Commercial Drone Pilot – Insurance & Inspections (Part-Time) at IBIS
January 1, 2018 - December 1, 2023
Conducted 100+ commercial RPAS flights for residential and commercial insurance assessments following fire, storm, and theft events. Captured high-resolution aerial imagery and video to validate and accelerate insurance claim decisions. Performed structured pre-flight planning including site hazard identification, weather checks, and public safety considerations. Delivered post-flight inspection reports combining aerial visuals and written observations for assessors and stakeholders. Maintained a zero-incident safety record.
Wildlife Drone Videographer at Gifford Media – Self-Employed
January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2023
Captured high-quality drone footage of the Sardine Run and other wildlife phenomena. Edited and published content to YouTube and DSTV, showcasing strong visual storytelling skills. Built a loyal online audience and refined video production skills using Adobe Premiere Pro.
Drone Operator (Insurance Assessments) at IBIS – Durban, SA (Part-Time)
January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2023
Conducted aerial inspections of properties for storm, fire, and theft-related insurance claims. Delivered detailed visual assessments using DJI drones and submitted final reports for claims processing. Maintained full compliance with drone regulations and license requirements.

Education

FET Certificate at CTU Training Solutions – South Africa
January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2019
Matric Certificate at Kingsway High School – South Africa
January 1, 2017 - December 31, 2017

Qualifications

International Autodesk Certifications: AutoCAD, Inventor, Revit (User & Professional)
January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2019
SA Institute of Draughting Member
January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2019
Drone Pilot License - License #: 0275518516
January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2018
Commercial Drone Pilot License (RPAS)
January 11, 2030 - January 21, 2026
Commercial Drone Pilot License (RPAS)
January 11, 2030 - January 21, 2026
Member, South African Institute of Draughting
January 11, 2030 - January 21, 2026

Industry Experience

Education, Real Estate & Construction, Manufacturing, Media & Entertainment, Professional Services