Flight Training, Hardware And Software Courses Part Of The Curriculum

Beginning in August, Hinds Community College in Raymond, MS, will begin training students interested in piloting unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in an effort to address the expected increasing demand within the civilian U.S. market.

As the FAA develops new policies and procedures to integrate unmanned aircraft into the existing airspace, civilian and commercial uses of UAVs will skyrocket. Law enforcement, emergency services, pipelines and mail delivery are just a few examples of where unmanned aircraft will replace existing manned vehicles. Forecasts over the next 10 years expect UAV spending worldwide to top $94 billion, said Randy Pearcy, Aviation Chair at Hinds Community College.

Hinds will offer four courses designed to familiarize students with UAV simulation software and hardware systems, as well as basic through advanced UAV flight training skills in various sized aircraft. The UAV curriculum can be combined with Hinds existing full-scale pilot training degree program or taken as a stand-alone, mini-course designed to prepare the student for an entry level pilot position within the UAV industry.

FMI: www.hindscc.edu