Nashua Community College announces the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has selected its Aviation Department for the Unmanned Aircraft Systems-Collegiate Training Initiative program or the UAS-CTI.
Professor Doug Mitchell, Aviation Technology department chair, explained what this means for NCC, “It’s a college training initiative, the FAA will have us on a list of school that has Drone Training, so that’s helpful for promotion. And in terms of any new training they have, we’ll be receiving new information. And if any new educational grant comes up relating to drone training, we’ll get that info right away.
The FAA’s UAS-CTI program recognizes institutions that prepare students for careers in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly referred to as drones. In order to qualify for the initiative, schools must offer a bachelor’s or associates degree in UAS or a degree with a minor, concentration, or certificate in UAS. Schools must provide curriculum covering various aspects of UAS training, including hands-on flight practice, maintenance, uses, applications, privacy concerns, safety, and federal policies concerning UAS.
NCC launched its first Drone Piloting program Aug. 31 with 6 students, and will offer another one in the spring. “Students are mostly interested in the drones for photography, but there are also delivery capabilities too. You can send them on a course, and they will avoid obstacles,” said Mitchell.
The course at NCC is primarily online, but includes an in-person component to practice flying the drones. “A lot of classes will run with 5-10 participants from real estate, or surveyors, police and fireman,” he said.
To learn more about the Drone Pilot Training at NCC or to sign up, visit nashuacc.edu/career-training/drone-pilot-training.