With FAA Rules Changing, Commercial Drone Training is Growing

January 12, 2017

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently released regulations that pave the way for expanded commercial use of drones, commonly referred to as Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS). As part of the new guidelines, commercial drone pilots are now required to pass the FAA's remote pilot knowledge test, Unmanned Aircraft - General.

The Workforce Development Institute at Hudson Valley Community College is offering a comprehensive 12-hour Drones - Learn to Fly (Intro to sUAS) course that provides the hands-on skills training for aspiring professional operators, contractors, employees and hobbyists to fly drones safely and efficiently. A follow-up six-hour Remote Pilot Knowledge Test Prep course prepares students to pass the FAA certification exam required for commercial use of drones. Based on each student's flight skills and interest in employment-related opportunities, students may take the courses sequentially or individually.

Goldman Sachs Research estimates the economic impact of sUAS technology to be $100 billion in the next four years for both existing industries and emerging businesses.

"It's the next transformative technology that will literally change how business is done for many industries," according to Richard E. Bennett III, associate dean of Continuing Education, Summer Sessions and Workforce Development at Hudson Valley Community College. "There are countless applications that are expected, and we are offering the most comprehensive, up-to-date course material available, so that members of our business community can be among those who are capturing this technology's potential."

Though the two courses culminate in preparation for the FAA remote pilot knowledge test and eventual FAA certification, they are also designed to offer comprehensive insight into different types of flight systems, their capabilities, safe and legal flying practices, market opportunities and applications, and hands-on piloting skills.

Training participants will receive a quadcopter with a camera and a flight simulator, along with course materials. The Drones - Learn to Fly (Intro to sUAS) course is capped off with a "Top Gun" competition, with participants demonstrating flying skills while navigating an obstacle course.

Both courses are starting soon. For more information, e-mail WDI@hvcc.edu, or call (518) 629-4111.