In this episode of Elevating Drone Life, we talk with Jorge Alvarez, founder of Drone Permission, about his journey from the concrete and construction industry to becoming a leader in drone services across Florida and the Caribbean. Jorge shares how he built a successful drone business by focusing on client communication, asking the right questions, and delivering high-quality work that meets the needs of construction stakeholders.
He explains how drone technology is transforming the way project progress is documented—particularly on massive projects like the MSC Cruise Terminal—and why educating clients on what drones can do is essential for sustained business growth.
Jorge also opens up about how he built a referral-driven business, scaled a team, and created efficient pricing strategies that reflect both value and confidence.
This conversation is packed with industry insights around mapping software, networking, collaboration, and using drones to enhance decision-making and stakeholder communication in the field.
Key Takeaways
Jorge Alvarez transitioned from concrete to the drone industry by applying his knowledge of construction workflows
Success begins with listening: understanding client needs and asking informed questions builds trust
Referral business and strong client relationships fuel sustainable growth
Drones offer unmatched value in construction documentation and project progress tracking
Tailored drone services—including aerial photography, mapping, and inspections—can solve real problems when client goals are clear
Educating clients is key to expanding the use of drone technology in traditional industries
Starting a business while working full-time is doable with the right systems and support
Investing in relationships and collaboration opens doors to more opportunities and better projects
Effective pricing strategies should reflect the value of the work and the unique insights drone pilots offer
The future of the drone industry includes internal pilots, growing enterprise demand, and more emphasis on visual storytelling and deliverables
Tune in and learn how to plan, grow, and succeed in the world of drones!
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Timestamps:
[00:00] Introduction to Drone Permission and Its Impact
[03:09] Jorge Alvarez's Journey into Drones
[05:57] The Importance of Client Communication
[09:11] Understanding Construction Needs
[11:53] The Role of Drones in Construction
[14:52] Building Relationships and Referral Business
[17:46] Capturing Progress: The MSC Cruise Terminal Project
[21:05] Innovative Uses of Drone Footage
[23:49] The Evolution of Drone Technology
[27:11] Maximizing Drone Usage and Skills
[30:06] Mapping and Software Utilization
[33:59] Educating Clients and Building Relationships
[36:24] The Journey of Starting a Business
[39:31] Networking and Collaboration in the Drone Industry
[42:47] Favorite Projects and Unique Experiences
[48:27] Understanding Pricing Strategies
[56:31] The Importance of Confidence in Pricing
[01:00:43] Future Aspirations and Industry Growth