Drone Sweet Drone: CAC Unveils New Horizons for Aspiring Pilots in Maricopa

Central Arizona College (CAC) has partnered with the Unmanned Safety Institute (USI) to launch a new series of drone training programs designed for aspiring unmanned aircraft pilots.

This initiative offers training at three levels, from introductory to advanced, aligning with federal aviation regulations. Students will prepare for careers in unmanned flight through hands-on instruction and certification.

While anyone can operate a drone recreationally, commercial flying requires a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) license. The training helps students prepare for the FAA Part 107 certification exam and gain industry-recognized credentials essential for career advancement.

CAC’s program, part of its Community and Continuing Education department, is available in both in-person and hybrid formats. It includes several course offerings, such as a Commercial Remote Pilot 107 Prep Course and an eight-week Primary Remote Pilot Program that combines online and flight training.

Additionally, a 16-week Advanced Remote Pilot Program focuses on “Beyond Visual Line of Sight” operations, allowing drones to fly distances beyond the operator’s sight. This capability is increasingly utilized for tasks such as pipeline inspections, agricultural monitoring, and supply delivery.

EmmaLea Bittner, CAC’s community and continuing education coordinator, noted the urgency for skilled remote pilots across various sectors, including agriculture, construction, and public safety. These programs cater to both novices and experienced professionals looking to enhance their credentials.

Josh Olds, USI’s president and CEO, emphasized the importance of this partnership for regional workforce development. He stated, “As demand for skilled professionals in unmanned technology continues to grow, initiatives like this ensure students receive necessary training to meet industry needs and help drive economic growth.”

Graduates will earn credentials recognized by ASTM International and supported by the FAA Safety Team. USI stands out as the first ASTM Approved Training Provider in the drone industry, offering similar training at over 500 institutions nationwide, with more than 20,000 certified individuals.