The latest Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rule now allows drone operators to use small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS), commonly known as drones, for commercial use without a pilot’s license. Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) is taking the cue to expand its innovative sUAS program at the college’s Professional Development Institute (PDI) in order to provide businesses with the resources they need to engage in this exciting new technology.
PDI will launch a course in August that will prepare operators to pass the test for Part 107 of the sUAS Rule, which allows commercial drone use without a section 333 exemption or a manned aircraft pilot’s license. The nine-hour course features a classroom lecture over materials and a practice exam to prepare for the FAA certification test.
Course instructor, Joe Hartpence, is a licensed pilot and instructor and a member of the FAA Fast Team. Hartpence’s skill set and experience, along with his ties to the FAA, will ensure a quality education for operators who take the course.
There are two course options available. Three three-hour sessions Aug. 2, 4 and 9, and then one nine-hour session Saturday, Aug. 27. The course will be offered at the Professional Development Institute located at 7124 S. I-35 Service Road, OKC, OK 73149. For more information about the course, pricing and enrollment, contact Patrick Clanin at Patrick.a.clanin@occc.edu or (405) 682-7854.
OCCC enrolls more than 20,000 students and has more than 90,000 participants in its various community programs annually. The college is currently the largest adult basic education provider in the state. OCCC offers a full range of associate degree programs that prepare students to transfer to baccalaureate institutions while other degree and certificate programs prepare students for immediate employment. At OCCC, students receive a quality education with small class sizes, dedicated professors and leadership opportunities. Students can choose from more than 80 major fields of study and participate in any of the 40+ clubs and organizations. For more information about OCCC, visit www.occc.edu.