Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Flight Operator
The Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Flight Operator program prepares students for professional, commercial drone operations in high-demand industries across Virginia and beyond. This career studies certificate focuses on safe flight practices, airspace regulations, operational planning, and hands-on drone operation aligned with current industry standards.
Students gain foundational knowledge and practical skills to operate small unmanned aircraft systems for applications such as public safety, inspections, agriculture, surveying, utilities, and media. The program supports preparation for the Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 Remote Pilot certification and is ideal for individuals seeking workforce entry or expanded technical skills.
Virginia Space Grant Consortium
The College under the leadership of Dr. Melissa Stange has been awarded an Innovative Project Grant UAS grant from the Virginia Space Grant Consortium (VSGC) to bring unmanned aircraft systems to students and community.
The College will be hosting a Females Take Flight program to include webinars on Females in STEM and UAS, summer camps for K-12 females for high school girls, 10 grants for female college students to take a drone class (UMS107) during the Fall 2022 semester to prepare to take their Part 107 exam, and an engaging UAS community fair this summer.
The College is excited to have the support of VSGC to bring our UAS program to the College’s service region, along with in several other drone activities. Through Dr. Stange’s participation in the GeoTEd-UAS Institute, she will spend a week in May at Virginia Tech learning more about drones and how to expand the program at the College.
Drone Related Links
- FAA DroneZone – Register your drone
- The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) – All recreational flyers must pass an aeronautical knowledge and safety test and provide proof of test passage (the TRUST completion certificate) to the FAA or law enforcement upon request
- AUVSI – Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International
- Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation – is a source for information, grants, partnerships, and seed funding for UxS in the Commonwealth
- Virginia Drone Laws – General rules for flying drones in Virginia
- VABA – Virginia Aviation Business Association
- Unmanned Systems Association of Virginia
- AOPA – Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association
- Commercial Drone Alliance – Shaping the future of the commercial drone industry
- World Drone Association
- Global Drone Pilots Association
- International Drone Operators Association
Our partnership offers cost-effective, authorized learning resources for enrolled technology students to properly prepare them for EC-Council exams and ultimately their careers after graduation. Students will have the opportunity to achieve industry recognized certifications and compete in free cyber competitions as they complete their degree programs, achieving the ultimate stackable credential lineup to enhance their resume.