DALLAS—Unmanned aircraft systems are no longer flights of fancy. The real-world applications for this technology have expanded from just recreational and military use to geographic mapping, agriculture, law enforcement, storm tracking and forecasting, shipping and delivery, and the list goes on.
Brookhaven College's new Unmanned Aircraft Systems Workshop Series is currently offering two courses, UAS Remote Pilot Certification Preparation and UAS in GIS. The three-day workshops are available from May through November.
"In every walk of life now we have some type of drone technology," said Vernon Hawkins, associate vice president of workforce and continuing education at Brookhaven College.
Most of the interest Hawkins has received has come from cities and municipalities. "Employees from fire and police call to say they need this for their job. And it is only going to get better," he said, adding that with anticipated industry growth in the north Texas area, demand for training will increase.
UAS Remote Pilot Certificate Preparation is designed to prepare students for the FAA Remote Pilot Certificate exam. While this is not a drone flying course, upon successful completion and scoring at least 80 percent on practice exams provided in class, students will be able to sit for the exam.
"The pilot certification preparation course is for anyone, however the optimal candidate has read part 107 of the rules and regulations and has had minimal experience in UAS operation," Hawkins said.
The UAS in GIS Workshop explores uses for drones in geographic information systems applications. The class covers basic UAS concepts, designs and functions, safety and licensing, flight planning and processing into information products, and provides resources to help navigate implementation of UAS in GIS.
For more information contact Vernon Hawkins at 972-860-4221.
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