The Occupational Endorsement Certificate (OEC) in Remote Pilot Operations prepares students for entry-level remote pilot positions within the drone industry. Students can advance in career opportunities because of their formal training and education.
Career possibilities available to graduates of the Remote Pilot Operations program include positions with Drone Operators, the Department of Transportation, State of Alaska, various Geographic Information System (GIS) and construction planning companies.
Licensure and Certification
The FAA Part 107 Certificate issued by the FAA will be required in this field. These courses will prepare the student to obtain this license as well as becoming proficient in flying drones.
Admission Requirements
Graduation Requirements
- Complete the General University Requirements for Occupational Endorsement Certificates.
- Complete the following major requirements:
Course List Code Title Credits ATP A107 Remote Pilot Aircraft System Part 107 1 ATP A207 Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems Applications 1 ATP A208 Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems Flight Operations 1 6 elective credits from any ATA or ATP course 6 Total 9
A minimum of 9 credits is required for the certificate.
Program Student Learning Outcomes
Students graduating with an Occupational Endorsement Certificate in Remote Pilot Operations will be able to:
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Demonstrate Proficiency in Drone Flight Operations and Maneuvering
Students will develop and demonstrate the skills necessary to operate drones safely and effectively in various environments. They will master standard maneuvers, flight planning, and control techniques, adapting to both manual and autonomous flight modes to ensure precise and stable drone operations under diverse conditions. -
Apply Knowledge of FAA Regulations and Safety Protocols
Students will understand and comply with FAA Part 107 regulations, including airspace classifications, weather considerations, and pre-flight planning requirements. They will apply these regulations to ensure legal and safe drone operation, including emergency protocols and best practices for mitigating potential risks. -
Utilize Data Collection and Processing Techniques for Industry Applications
Students will use drones to collect high-quality aerial data for various applications, such as surveying, mapping, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure inspection. They will also develop skills in processing and analyzing this data using relevant software, producing accurate and actionable insights tailored to industry needs. -
Demonstrate Proficiency in Drone Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Students will acquire technical skills in routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of drone systems, understanding the critical components and functions of drone hardware and software. They will learn to identify and resolve common issues to ensure drones operate efficiently and safely over time. -
Execute Ethical and Professional Decision-Making in Drone Operations
Students will learn the importance of ethical and responsible drone usage, including considerations of privacy, environmental impact, and public safety. They will demonstrate sound judgment in assessing and responding to operational challenges, making decisions that prioritize safety, ethical standards, and adherence to industry and regulatory guidelines.