GIS and Drone Technology

Year 1:

• Geospatial Technologies I (DE) - Course No. 8423
• Unmanned Aircraft Systems - Course No. 8910
• Career Strategies - Course No. 9071

Year 2:

• Geospatial Technologies II (DE) - Course No. 8424
• Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Advanced - Course No. 8912

• Remote Pilot Certificate with a Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems rating (Part 107 license)
• Workplace Readiness Skills Certification
• ESRI GIS Fundamentals Foundation Certification

The GIS and Drones Program is an exclusive program to the ACE Center at Highland Springs. Students who enjoy or are interested in learning about industry connections for GIS and Drone technology will love this class. These connections include but are not limited to: civil engineering, video game design, agriculture, real estate, healthcare, government, and law enforcement. Students will be exposed to applications of GIS software, FAA regulations for drones, flight time with drones, ethics in use of GIS and drones, documentation, safety standards, protocols, and hands on building of drones. This course prepares students for careers as a drone operator as well as the first steps for a continued education in the GIS field by providing them with real-world, hands-on experience.

• Students prepare for and sit for industry standard licensure FAA Part 107 Drone License.
• The opportunity to be a part of the expansion of the new geospatial and drone classes currently offered.
• Over the two year course program, students have the opportunity to earn up to 6 college credits through dual-enrollment with James Madison University and 12 college credits through Virginia Peninsula Community College.
• Students experience guest speakers and field trips integrating career fields such as law enforcement, government, health care, and entrepreneurship.