The Fullerton Drone Lab is finishing up the details for the first-ever state-certified drone piloting apprenticeship program.
Thanks to funding from the California Community College Chancellor’s office, and local donors, the fully-funded apprenticeship program will take students through the training at Fullerton College, pay for the certification, and they will log 600 hours of on-the-job training with a drone service provider.
“The apprenticeship program will allow students to gain real experience and will position them for a greater opportunity for employment,” said Jay Seidel, director of the Fullerton Drone Lab.
Students enter the apprenticeship program and take the courses for the Uncrewed Aerial Systems Piloting. They will take the FAA Part 107 certification exam and earn their OSHA-30 certification. They will also log up to 50 hours of flight time before starting their on-the-job training.
Apprentices gain experience working with drone service provider partners in utility inspection and other areas. Once they complete their apprenticeship they will receive certification from the state and can be considered journeymen status.
Thanks to the funding, all of the apprentices expenses are paid for and they will have the opportunity to purchase their first drone.
“We’re excited to continue to work to offer students students their much-needed real-world training,” Seidel said. “It’s how we can continue to help develop the workforce of tomorrow.”