When I first got my start in the drone industry well over a decade ago, I was almost always the only woman in the room, whether that was a drone conference, flight field or other industry meetup. Unsurprisingly, it often felt a little lonely.
That’s why the creation of drone women’s group Amelia Dronehart back in those early days was such a game-changer for me — any many others like me spread around the world. Founded by Rhianna Lakin, Amelia Dronehart was primarily a Facebook group, facilitating connections and even in-person meetups. For so many of us, it was a dedicated, supportive nook of the internet where female pilots, engineers, creators and enthusiasts could ask questions, share footage, and lift each other up without fear of judgment. Rhianna built something truly special.
I even had the chance to meet her in real life a few times, including a memorable meetup that DJI invited us to. But as the years went on, life shifted, people moved on to new projects, and — let’s be honest — many of us lost interest in spending time on Facebook (definitely me!). Amelia Dronehart in some respects went quiet, but the need for that community never went away.
Which is why I am thrilled to share the news that Amelia Dronehart is officially back for version 2.0!
Enter Kara Murphy: Leading Amelia Dronehart into a new chapter
At the end of August 2026, the group relaunched. This time, it’s led by someone who makes absolute, total sense: Kara Murphy, who has taken on the role of Executive Director.
Kara has long been a staple in the drone industry. If you don’t know her work, she is an incredibly talented photographer, a phenomenal writer, and a tireless advocate for drone pilots. She has been championing women in tech and aviation for years, making her the perfect person to steward this next era. Rather than relying on a Facebook group, Amelia Dronehart 2.0 has officially launched a brand-new website at ameliadronehart.com. Membership is currently 100% free for a limited time.
“Amelia Dronehart has always been about the people,” Kara said in the official launch announcement. “The website gives us a place to bring them together, but it also gives us an opportunity to build something for the women who are just discovering this industry and wondering where they fit into it.”
Besides Kara leading the charge, the group entails a stellar board of directors and advisors representing deep experience across tech, law, education, and media. That includes names of poeple you frequently read on this website such as Sharon Rossmark (author and CEO of Women and Drones), legal expert Loretta Alkalay and Renee Welch of WeRobotics.
“We aren’t here to compete with other organizations,” Kara said in reference to the other groups out there. “There is plenty of room for all of us. When women share knowledge, make introductions, open doors, and encourage each other, the entire industry benefits.”
Seeing an organization that meant so much to me during my early days in this industry come back bigger and stronger makes my heart so happy. Whether you’re a Part 107 certified commercial pilot, a software engineer, an enterprise manager or someone who just bought their very first camera drone, there is a seat at the table for you.
Did you belong to the original Amelia Dronehart group back in the day? Are you excited to join the new platform? Let me know in the comments below!
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