Jay Bernstein has more than a decade of experience training drone pilots and has been involved in infrared thermographic applications for over eight years. A former Certified Flight Instructor, Jay applies his aviation background to the precise planning and execution of unmanned aircraft missions for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Technology from Arizona State University, numerous FAA certificates, has previously worked for FAA Part 135 and Part 121 air carriers, and held an FAA Section 333 Exemption in 2015 to operate drones commercially before becoming Part 107 certified in 2016 when the regulation first came out.

Specializing in thermographic photogrammetry and advanced thermal inspection workflows, Jay has conducted complex aerial inspections across commercial, industrial, and utility environments. At The Snell Group, he develops and delivers technical training that bridges aviation, infrared science, and data-driven inspection methodologies. His instruction emphasizes radiometric data acquisition, environmental and atmospheric considerations, and best practices for producing actionable infrared analysis from aerial platforms.

Before entering the unmanned aviation and infrared inspection fields, Jay worked as a yacht broker and captain. He also was an active sailboat racer, enjoying both sail and power boating along the West Coast and in Hawaii. Today, he enjoys life in Southern California with his wife, son, and golden retriever, spending free time exploring the outdoors when not teaching or flying.