Program Overview
Piedmont Virginia Community College's Remote Pilot Airman program equips students with the knowledge and skills to operate drones commercially. The program covers regulations, airspace classifications, flight planning, risk assessment, and emergency procedures. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in industries such as precision agriculture, aerial imagery, and construction inspection. The program is eligible for FastForward funding and prepares students for the FAA's Remote Pilot Airman – Part 107 certification exam.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Remote Pilot Airman program at Piedmont Virginia Community College prepares students to earn an entry-level credential in the commercial operation of drones, also known as unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
Objectives:
- Provide students with the knowledge and skills required to operate drones commercially.
- Prepare students to pass the Remote Pilot Airman – Part 107 credential exam offered by the Federal Aviation Agency (FAA).
- Equip students with the understanding of regulations, operating rules, airspace classifications, and emergency procedures related to drone operation.
Description:
This program covers a comprehensive curriculum encompassing various aspects of commercial drone operation, including:
- Regulatory requirements and operating rules
- Registration rules and regulatory waivers
- Airspace classifications and operational requirements
- Effects of weather on performance
- Loading and performance calculations
- Radio communications and airport operations
- Emergency procedures
- Aeronautical decision-making and physiological factors
- Maintenance and inspection procedures
Outline:
Content:
The program delves into the following content areas:
- Unmanned aerial systems (UAS) regulations and operations
- Commercial drone applications
- Flight planning and execution
- Risk assessment and mitigation
- Data acquisition and analysis
- Safety and emergency procedures
Structure:
Modules:
The program is divided into modules covering specific topics:
- Module 1: Introduction to UAS
- Module 2: Regulations and Operations
- Module 3: Flight Planning and Execution
- Module 4: Risk Assessment and Mitigation
- Module 5: Data Acquisition and Analysis
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Completion of quizzes and assignments
- Participation in class discussions and activities
- Final exam
Assessment Criteria:
- Demonstrated understanding of course content
- Ability to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios
- Proficiency in operating drones safely and effectively
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Interactive lectures
- Hands-on training
- Simulations
- Case studies
Faculty:
The program is instructed by experienced professionals with expertise in drone operation and commercial applications.
Careers:
Career Paths:
Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in various industries, including:
- Precision agriculture
- Aerial imagery and cinematography
- Construction inspection
- Aerial surveys
- Emergency response
- Law enforcement
Opportunities:
The program provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue entry-level positions as commercial drone pilots.
- The program is offered through the Workforce Services division of PVCC.
- The program is eligible for FastForward funding, which provides financial assistance to eligible students.
- The program prepares students for the Remote Pilot Airman – Part 107 certification exam, which is required by the FAA for legal commercial drone operation.
Piedmont Virginia Community College: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) is a public two-year institution offering a wide range of academic and workforce development programs. It serves the Charlottesville and Albemarle County area, providing accessible and affordable education to a diverse student population.
Services Offered:
PVCC offers a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Advising:
Personalized guidance on course selection, program planning, and career exploration.Academic Support:
Resources like tutoring, writing center, and academic coaching to enhance learning.Financial Aid:
Assistance with scholarships, grants, loans, and payment plans to make education affordable.Career Services:
Guidance on job searching, resume writing, interview preparation, and internship opportunities.Student Success Services:
Programs and resources to help students navigate college life and achieve their goals.Library:
Access to a vast collection of books, journals, databases, and study spaces.Bookstore:
Purchase textbooks, supplies, and PVCC merchandise.Mental Health Services:
Counseling and support for students' emotional well-being.Veterans Services:
Dedicated support for veterans and their families.Campus Life:
Opportunities for student engagement through clubs, organizations, events, and the student newspaper.Student Life and Campus Experience:
PVCC fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment. Students can expect:
Active Student Government Association (SGA):
Representing student interests and organizing events.Diverse Student Clubs and Organizations:
Opportunities to connect with peers and explore interests.Civic Engagement Initiatives:
Encouraging students to participate in community service and civic life.Panther Fitness Center:
Access to fitness facilities for student well-being.Campus Safety:
A dedicated campus police department and safety resources for student security.Key Reasons to Study There:
Affordable and Accessible Education:
PVCC offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid options.High-Quality Programs:
PVCC provides a wide range of academic and workforce development programs.Strong Transfer Pathways:
PVCC offers seamless transfer options to four-year universities.Dedicated Faculty and Staff:
PVCC boasts a committed faculty and staff dedicated to student success.Vibrant Campus Community:
PVCC fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment.Academic Programs:
PVCC offers a variety of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Humanities, Fine Arts and Social Sciences:
English, History, Art, Music, Psychology, Sociology, and more.Health and Life Sciences:
Nursing, Biology, Medical Assisting, and more.Business, Mathematics, and Technologies:
Business Administration, Accounting, Computer Science, and more.Other:
PVCC also offers:
Distance Learning:
Online courses and programs for flexible learning.Dual Enrollment:
Opportunities for high school students to earn college credit.Early College Program:
A program for high school students to earn college credit and a high school diploma.English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL):
Programs to support English language learners.Workforce Development:
Short-term training programs and customized training for businesses.Community Engagement:
PVCC actively engages with the community through various programs and events.Note:
This summary is based on the provided context and may not include all aspects of PVCC.
Entry Requirements:
English Language Learners (ELL/ESL):
If English is not the first language, prospective students must complete a CASAS assessment with an acceptable score prior to program admission.
Additional Requirements for International Students:
International students must also meet the following financial requirements:
- Have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses for the duration of their studies.
- Provide evidence of financial support, such as a bank statement or letter from a sponsor.
- Be able to demonstrate that they are able to pay their tuition fees in full before the start of each semester.
- The Remote Pilot Airman program is a FastForward credential program, which means that it is a fast-paced and intensive program that can be completed in a short amount of time.
- The program is offered in a variety of formats, including online, hybrid, and in-person.
Christy Hawkins, Program Dean
Phone:
434-961-5301
Email:
christy.hawkins@pvcc.edu
