UAV-UAS Courses Part of New Certificate and Degree Programs
As the drone industry continues to grow, students can now turn to Cypress College for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) classes that prepare them to become certified by the Federal Aviation Administration.
New Addition to the Aviation and Travel Careers Program
Ed Valdez
UAV-UAS classes are a new addition to the Aviation and Travel Careers Program at Cypress College. Instructor Ed Valdez spearheaded the effort to develop this new program, and was eager to become a certified drone pilot when the FAA finalized its regulations in August.
As a trained pilot with 35 years of flying experience, Valdez was able to easily pass the FAA exam, and after a couple of weeks received his license.
“The purpose for obtaining my license was so that I could teach the courses we created at Cypress College,” explains Valdez. “The courses prepare students to get certified to fly the small UASs in a commercial operation, one of the fastest growing areas in aviation.”
Valdez anticipated the need for this training years ago. “I saw the potential,” he says. “So three years ago I began looking in that area.”
Using his professional expertise, Valdez identified the important facets of aviation that would pertain to UASs and got to work creating curriculum. He has received all local and regional approvals necessary for the department’s Certificate and Associate’s Degree programs, and expects to receive State approval soon.
“The Certificates enable students to start with the small unmanned aircraft systems, and the A.S. Degree prepares them for a career in the larger UASs used by the military, government and other UAS emerging industries,” notes Valdez.
Two of the Program’s Classes are Being Offered
Two of the program’s classes are being offered this semester. UAV-UAS Basic prepares students to pass the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge exam in order to become certified drone pilots. Valdez also worked with the college Photography department to develop Drone Photography and Video, which teaches students to photograph both stills and video from UAVs. There are 39 students enrolled in these courses this fall.
Valdez regularly partners with other area schools, like Glendale Community College, to share curriculum. But the confidence he has in his Cypress College colleagues is unmatched.
“We have the depth of experience in our core professors to help students in all aspects in aviation, including this new area. We can provide them with the ability to really get somewhere with this UAS program.”
For more information, contact Ed Valdez at evaldez@cypresscollege.edu
