| COURSE | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| AI Applications in Aerial Imagery Analysis | This four-week online course provides practical training on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) tools to analyze aerial imagery captured by drones. Participants will learn to process, analyze, and interpret geospatial data using AI techniques, with a strong focus on real-world workforce applications. The course combines self-paced modules, hands-on exercises with aerial datasets, and weekly live virtual labs to reinforce learning and enhance skill development. NOTE: Virtual Lab meetings will take place weekly from 6:30pm – 8:30pm over video via MS Teams |
| Commercial UAS Certificate Prep (Part 107) | This course will prepare students to take the FAA Part 107 exam required of all commercial UAV (drone) operators. Topics covered include FAA regulations, airspace classifications, operating requirements, flight restrictions, aviation weather sources, effects of weather on performance, weight and balance, emergency procedures, crew resource management, radio communications, physiological factors, aeronautical decision-making and judgment, and maintenance and preflight inspection procedures. Instructors will guide students through registering to take their FAA Part 107 Exam. Each week students will review presentations and videos, complete activities, and take practice quizzes. Additionally, each week there will be a 1-hour live video group session with your instructor that will serve as a guided study session and provide time for review and questions. Students are expected to attend one of six video sessions that will meet in the morning and evening. The FAA examination costs $175 (subject to change) and is not included in the registration fee. Recommended Workbook: Current ASA Remote Pilot Test Prep Book |
| Commercial UAS Operations Management | This course provides a comprehensive overview of drone operations, compliance, and program management through case studies, discussions, and hands-on exercises. Students will review FAA regulations, operational procedures, risk management, and fleet oversight while building a portfolio of practical work. Key topics include airspace authorization, SOP development, emergency response, crew management, and mission planning. The course culminates in a capstone project where students apply their knowledge to plan and document a hypothetical mission. |
| Drone Building Workshop | This is an immersive three-day course where students will build, test, and fly their own FPV-style UAVs. This course is ideal for those who have completed our online UAS Components and Systems course or have some basic familiarity with electronics or robotics. This hands-on workshop takes participants through the full assembly process, from selecting components to configuring flight systems. Students will gain practical skills in wiring, soldering, tuning, and troubleshooting, culminating in real-world flight testing. Whether you’re looking to deepen your technical understanding or enhance your piloting capabilities, this workshop provides a fast-paced, skill-building experience in drone construction and operation |
| Photo/Video Editing & Production | This class is not specific to UAV operations and introduces students to the basics of creating photo and video content, editing, and postproduction with photography and videography. Students will learn the specifics of camera operation, planning shots, recording video and sound and producing deliverables. Students are not expected to have any prior experience. Equipment, including computers, and software will be available for use. |
| Processing Aerial Imagery with Pix4Dmatic | Students will explore mapping using UAVs and Pix4Dmatic software. Topics covered in this course include equipment & software selection, capturing imagery, creating digital maps and 3D models, establishing control points, linear and volumetric measurements, project development and management, and producing deliverables. Students will be able to use provided datasets or their own aerial image sets. This class is taught by Pix4D Certified trainers. Online courses will cover the same material. Upon successful completion of coursework, students will sit for optional end-of-course knowledge exams and, if successful, earn their Pix4Dmatic and/or Pix4Dmapper Certifications. Students who elect the certification option will pay an additional $130 estimated cost per exam directly to Pix4D prior to testing. |
| Intro to GIS & Mapping | This is an intensive 48-hour online course designed to provide a foundational understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) using ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online. Participants will learn essential GIS concepts, data management, spatial analysis, and map creation, gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard tools. The course covers real-world applications across various fields, from public safety to environmental management, helping students develop practical mapping and analysis skills. Whether you’re new to GIS or looking to refine your expertise, this course offers a comprehensive introduction to the power of spatial data for informed decision-making. |
| UAS Operator Training – The Basics | Students will receive hands-on training and will learn the fundamentals of flight, navigation, safety protocols, and flying techniques. Students will be expected to progress through a series of basic maneuvers that will lead to proficiency in routine flight operations. Students will also be guided through obtaining the FAA TRUST certificate required for all recreational remote pilots. Neither previous piloting experience nor a Part 107 license is required for this course. The dates and times of meetings may change due to weather conditions. |
| UAS Operator Training – NIST Open Lane | This is an intensive two-day hands-on course designed to enhance drone pilots’ flight proficiency using the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Open Lane test course. Participants will refine their control, precision, and maneuvering skills through structured exercises that simulate real-world operational scenarios. This course emphasizes accuracy, efficiency, and confidence in drone handling, making it ideal for public safety professionals, industrial inspectors, and commercial operators looking to improve their piloting capabilities. Prior experience with UAV operation is suggested. |
| UAS Operator Training – FPV (First Person View) | Students will be introduced to the exciting world of First-Person Video (FPV) UAS technology with guidance from experienced instructors. FPV drones use onboard cameras that send a live video feed to goggles worn by the pilot. Through demonstrations and practical flight assessments students will learn about equipment, technique, safety procedures, and regulations. Students will also be guided through obtaining the FAA TRUST certificate required for all recreational remote pilots. Neither previous piloting experience nor a Part 107 license is required for this course. No prior FPV experience is required. |
| UAS Operator Training – Aerial Photography & Videography | Administration Students will be introduced to the best practices of aerial photography and videography and can expect to progress through a series of media-focused maneuvers. As part of the class students will plan a media project and gather the requisite stock photos or footage. Using their images or video students will create a product using editing software. Students will also be guided through obtaining the FAA TRUST certificate required for all recreational remote pilots. Neither previous piloting experience nor a Part 107 license is required for this course. |
| UAS Operator Training -Capturing Aerial Imagery for Inspections & Mapping | In this hands-on course students will learn the fundamentals of aerial imagery as it relates to inspections and mapping. Equipment preparation, inspection and care, regulations and safety guidelines, mission planning and flight preparations, photography techniques, manual and autonomous data acquisition, mapping software and tools, and analysis of aerial data will all be covered. This course will help to prepare students to leverage aerial imagery for inspection and mapping tasks effectively for application in a variety of commercial industries. |
| UAS Components & Systems | This course provides an in-depth examination of drone anatomy, components, and functions and is designed for individuals looking to build a strong foundation in drone technology. Over six weeks, students will gain knowledge of drone systems including structure, propulsion, flight controls, sensors, and payloads. In addition, operations, troubleshooting, and an introduction to regulatory and safety protocols will be covered. Finally, students will design a custom drone, select components, and develop a plan for assembly and operation. |
