Warren Community College is one of only a few program providers for the Association of Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI). For those who wish to become certified drone pilots, training through this program offers ample opportunities for employment. 

In the coming weeks, the college is offering Powerpack courses at its Washington campus Anex and Droneport. This program is intended to accommodate students who may have other commitments during the week, although they are open to anyone interested. 

AUVSI, founded in 1972, is a non-profit organization that promotes and supports the unmanned systems and robotics industry through communication, education and leadership. Warren received a $1.5 million grant from the United States Congress to create new robotics and drone classrooms at the Phillipsburg Education Center on Marshall Street, just off Route 22 and thanks to this grant, is expanding its program opportunities.

The initial piloting course is Remote Pilot Operations (UAS 105), a hybrid course preparing students to sit for the FAA Part 107 test. It is a three weekend, three credit, PowerPack, which consolidates courses in a shorter time period. The schedule is Oct. 21 through 23, Nov. 4 through 6 and 11 through 13 with Friday classes held remotely from 6 to 9 p.m., Saturdays held at the college in the Main Building from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays, in the same location, are also 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thermography

An important new development in drone technology is the adoption of thermal imaging or infrared sensors, enabling use when temperatures are low enough to detect infrared radiation or when it is too dangerous for personnel to be present. Thermal imaging drones can see through smoke and also help identify hazardous material leaks. They are used in search and rescue operations, with sensors that indicate body heat. Drones with thermal imaging cameras are changing industrial and energy inspection, reducing cost and increasing safety and efficiency.

An advanced remote sensing: infrared thermography course (UAS 212) is scheduled for three weekends held at Washington Campus: Oct. 22 and 23; Nov. 5 and 6 and 12 and 13, with Saturday classes from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays noon to 5 p.m. This course will be led by Dr. Will Austin, WCC president and the college’s Chief Pilot, who is also a certified thermographer and the 2022 AUVSI Member of the Year.

This course focuses on using thermography for various conditions, including monitoring/predictive maintenance and identification. Students will learn how to collect, interpret and analyze infrared data using a drone, aerial imaging, and handheld sensors.

Credentials

Students can accumulate industry credentials as they complete a degree or credit certificate. An associate in applied science degree is granted in unmanned systems/remotely-piloted robots. Certificates are offered in drone piloting and drone repair and maintenance.

The college is also partnered with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for those seeking to transfer the A.A.S. from Warren to a 4-year program of study. For more information on the Powerpack courses, to go https://conta.cc/3SiXdB2 or visit warren.edu/drones.