The Federal Aviation Administration awarded Fullerton College its inaugural Aviation Workforce Development Grants for aviation maintenance technical workers to Fullerton College’s Drone Lab. The grant will cover equipment and costs to develop a sUAS Repair Technician Certificate Program.
The aviation workforce development grants for aviation maintenance technical workers was developed to generate and increase interest and prepare students to pursue aviation maintenance careers. This one specifically focuses on small uncrewed aerial systems (sUAS), more commonly referred to as drones.
“This is a great opportunity for our students and future students interested in careers in UAS,” said Professor Jay Seidel, Fullerton Drone Lab director. “The number of drones will continue to grow across the country, and we need to help prepare a workforce that’s ready to repair and maintain them.”
Two new courses specifically focused on drone repair will be developed. They will be combined with current courses on electronics, programming, and computer assisted design in order to develop the certificate program.
“Students will gain knowledge and hands-on experience on everything that makes a drone operate,” Seidel said. “They will work on small and large airframes as well as programming and 3D printing. It will be the complete package in preparation of certifying them as repair technicians.”
The sUAS Repair Technician certificate training program will be the first if its kind in California and will provide greater employment opportunities for students throughout the Southern California region.
The Fullerton Drone Lab was established in 2018 and not only teaches students to become better and safer pilots, but also teaches them the application of drones in various industries. Students from all industry sectors can learn how drones can help enhance their workplace, while learning to be safer in the skies. The program is recognized by the FAA as part of its Collegiate Training Initiative. It is a certified Service Provider by the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems international, as well as a ASTM International Certified Training Provider.
Fullerton College is the oldest community college in continuous operation in California. Since its first class of 26 students in 1913, we have grown to become one of the most successful community colleges in the nation. Our high transfer and graduation rates, rich academic programs and radically student-centered approach equip students with the skills and resources they need to succeed.