On Saturday, April 30, eleven SPC students completed a hands-on Unmanned Ariel Systems (UAS)/Drone class. The course was taught by Mark Mansour, adjunct professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Unmanned Aircraft System teacher at Clearwater High School. Additionally, five of Mark’s high school students who currently hold the UAS Safety Certification were on hand to assist.
The morning classroom session included topics on: FAA airspace regulations, safety, appropriate use, weather, resources for operators and simulation flights to prepare the students for the hands-on component of the training. The afternoon session included: pre-flight inspection checklist, standard callouts, takeoff, basic flight maneuvers and landing.
Everyone who took the class agreed that they had a great experience and are looking forward to expanded classes in this growing industry.
Mark Mansour spoke highly of the class participants. “You are all amazing, I was very pleased with your level of understanding and the flight operations,” he said.
Class participants weigh in
Mark Santos said, “I have taken many adult education classes, varied in the complexity of subject matter. Most courses of this type are taught or facilitated by someone in the corresponding field of study. That being said, it was truly a pleasure to have an instructor that met or exceeded my expectations for an adult type class and was a true and excellent ‘Educator.’ All in all, an excellent class!”
Arlon Johnson also was pleased with class. “I am very satisfied with this course. Extremely informative. Thanks again for an excellent presentation and hands-on flying experience.”
The next UAS / Drone Overview course is scheduled for
Saturday, June 11 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
SPC EpiCenter
To register call: 727-791-2409
Over the next 10 years, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) or drones are expected to create more than 100,000 jobs with an economic impact of $82 billion. Florida stands to benefit more than almost any other state as new regulations will bring 3,000 new jobs and $632 million in economic impact to the state by 2017, according to the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International. Career opportunities for students with drone training include business-entrepreneurship, military drone pilot, firefighter, disaster relief, search and rescue, law enforcement, oil and gas operations, border patrol, agriculture, package delivery, forestry, engineering, computer science, real estate, film and photography, and other industries.
For more information about SPC UAS/Drone Courses classes, contact Fred Tucker, Workforce Institute Job Coordinator, at 727-791-2409 or tucker.fred@spcollege.edu.