The University of Maine at Augusta (UMA) was one of 26 schools across the country selected by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a participant in the Unmanned Aircraft Systems-Collegiate Training Program (UAS-CTI).

The FAA’s UAS-CTI program recognizes institutions that prepare students for careers in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly referred to as drones. In order to qualify for the initiative, schools must offer a bachelor’s or an associate degree in UAS or a degree with a minor, concentration, or certificate in UAS. Schools must provide curriculum covering various aspects of UAS training, including hands-on flight practice, maintenance, uses, applications, privacy concerns, safety, and federal policies concerning UAS.

“We are very excited by the FAA’s selection of our drone program and the opportunities it will open up for our students,” said Dan Leclair, UMA director of UAS Education and Research. “The fall semester is just about to begin and this is a perfect time for anyone considering Unmanned Pilot Training to join us,” continued Leclair.

Classes beginning on August 31 for Fall 2020 include seven-week courses in Commercial FAA Pilot Certification or Fixed Wing Design & Build, and a full semester Photogrammetry course.

UMA’s Unmanned Pilot Training Program is adaptable to meet individual needs. Participants can work towards a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Science with unmanned aircraft as a major course of study; earn a 31 credit hour certificate in UAS operations; or take a basic Commercial Drone course to prepare for the FAA Part 107 Commercial Remote Pilot certificate.

“This is an excellent recognition of the valuable employment opportunities provided by our Unmanned Pilot Training Program,” said UMA President Rebecca Wyke, in a news release.

For additional information on UMA’s Aviation Program, including manned and unmanned pilot training please visit: https://www.uma.edu/academics/programs/aviation/.

UMA transforms the lives of students of every age and background across the State of Maine and beyond through access to high-quality distance and on-site education, excellence in student support, civic engagement, and professional and liberal arts programs.  For more information, please visit https://www.uma.edu/.

About FAA’s Collegiate Training Initiative: This program allows educational institutions to collaborate with the FAA to help students pursue their aviation career goals. The UAS-CTI program recognizes institutions that prepare students for careers in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly referred to as drones.