We had the good fortune of connecting with William Brown and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi William, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My though process behind starting my own business was mostly simple. I wanted a creative outlet that both contrasted and complimented my professional career in Project Management and Construction. I started Plan View Drone Aerials, PVDA, back in February of 2020 with the intent of elevating my drone and photography hobby to commercial and professional use. There’s not much creativity in delivering engineering projects. Too much creativity could land me in hot water. Plus, it wouldn’t be artistic! So, I needed to breakout a bit!

The complimentary aspect of my business is to support the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction industries by providing aerial photos and videos to record progress and provide materials to these businesses for marketing. I figured I had two advantages: I worked in this industry for over 15 years, so I’d be familiar with the ins-and-outs. Secondly, I could be competitive in this niche market by using drones instead of helicopters or airplanes like the big companies.

Owning and running a small business has been a fun learning experience and I still love droning! I’m looking forward to big and frequent opportunities to show what PVDA can do!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When interacting with me you’re getting half Atlanta, GA and half Sacramento, CA. I’ve learned to balance that combination over time to become more well-rounded and relatable.

It is my construction internship, from 17 years ago, that laid the foundation for my career. Today, I’m a Project Manager for one of the largest engineering firms in the world. As I approach my 20-year career milestone I think what kept me gainfully employed was obtaining relevant qualifications, reaching out for help, and not being afraid to go after new opportunities when necessary.

With all that said, my experience gives me some advantages with running PVDA. There aren’t too many aerial photography companies that can say they’re experienced in construction, walked in their clients’ shoes, were founded by a Southern Poly graduate in Civil Engineering, and is a small black-owned business. I take pride in wearing all of it!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I’m entertaining visitors, a great way to enjoy what Atlanta has to offer would be the Eastside Beltline – from O4W to Midtown – but during the week. We’d walk and graze the food spots, people watch, catch a festival, grab a scooter (try not to die), catch a movie at the revamped Colony Square, and maybe hit this dive bar on Ponce that they’ve probably heard about (rhymes with Hairmont Lounge or something).

If ATL-UNITED, FC is playing then we’ll be in The Benz!

Unless, it’s the Battery in Cobb for a Braves game or a show at The Roxy, we’re staying ITP.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have to say that I received more support than I expected in my pursuit of being a successful small business. My first “job” was provided in the aftermath of the Easter Tornado in Thomaston, GA. Mr. & Mrs. Bouldin allowed me to photograph and map their property damage.

Secondly, no coincidence this was my second job, Gabi M. One of the most wonderful, engaging, and uplifting persons I’ve met in a long while. They provided an opportunity for me to photograph, and 3D Map a site as part of their Goat Farm Oral History Project. At the time, this was my biggest aerial photography and 3D mapping opportunity.

And last, but not least, Rohadfox Construction Control Services in Atlantic Station. They provided my biggest opportunity to date. Mapping and photographing one of their many construction projects around Atlanta. They requested photos and videos of a large park for marketing purposes.

There are several individuals that have continuously supported my efforts and have provided me with tips, suggestions, and insights into running a business. From Kerri O. and Laraine W. To my career cohorts and friends, Michael V. and Brian K. And back home in NorCal, Nate H. and Vaugh S. for the levity, the hustle, and keeping me grounded.

Website: www.pvdallc.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wfb_3rdworld/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plan-view-drone-aerials-llc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/planviewdroneaerialsllc/

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