District 2 photo
By Haleigh Pike
District 2 public information officer
When you see a drone hovering above a Caltrans District 2 work site or emergency area, there’s a good chance that Redding Landscape Supervisor Kevin Andersen is behind the controls.
Recently, Andersen took on an additional role as the district’s drone operator for field maintenance, capturing aerial footage and photos that offer a new perspective on the important work happening across the region.
From documenting maintenance operations to surveying areas impacted by storms, slide and other natural disasters, Andersen’s footage helps the district better understand work zone logistics, enhance training and plan future emergency responses.
“It’s been an incredible experience getting to see our work from above,” Andersen said. “The drone gives us a view we just can’t get from the ground, and it tells the story of what our crews do every day and how much effort goes into keeping our highways safe.”
Andersen began his career in January 2020 as a highway maintenance worker, where he earned his Class A license outside of Caltrans while continuing to build his skills in the field. From there, he promoted to a CEO II position and later obtained his Qualified Applicator Certification (QAC), which allowed him to advance to landscape leadworker within Vegetation Control.
During that time, Andersen served out-of-class as the Red Bluff Supervisor for nearly a year, followed by an out-of-class assignment as the Redding landscape supervisor. In June 2023, he was officially appointed to that position on a permanent basis.
What makes Kevin’s placement in his new drone role unique is his creative eye, shaped by a deep passion for photography.
“I’ve always been fascinated by how a single image can capture emotion, tell a story, or preserve a fleeting moment that words often can’t describe,” Andersen said. “Photography gives me the opportunity to view the world through a different lens, both literally and creatively, allowing me to appreciate the details and depth of everyday life.”
Outside of work, Andersen enjoys documenting his family’s adventures, including moments with his daughter Raven, and wife, Amanda Andersen, who serves as the small business liaison for District 2. His photography interests are wide-ranging, from the peaceful beauty of nature to the fine details of macro shots and the wonder of the night sky through astrophotography.
“Choosing a favorite subject is difficult because I enjoy capturing so many different things,” Andersen said. “But I’ve always had a special appreciation for black-and-white photography. Without the distraction of color, it reveals raw emotion, texture and contrast, bringing out the true essence and story within each image.”
Whether he’s photographing a quiet mountain sunrise or filming maintenance crews clearing a rockslide, Andersen’s goal remains the same, to capture the dedication, skill and heart of the people who keep California moving.
“I really do enjoy being able to show what our crews do from a new angle,” Andersen said. “It’s rewarding to know the work I do helps tell their story and supports our team in the field.”
With his combination of creativity, technical skills, and dedication to public service, Andersen is helping District 2 see its work, literally, from a whole new perspective.