The use of sUAS, or Small Unmanned Systems, commonly referred to as drones, is an industry that has seen exponential growth in recent years. With the FAA regulation change in August 2016 it became possible for individuals to see careers as certified sUAS pilots. Passing the knowledge exam is only one component to the commercial use of Drone Technology. Knowledge of physical manipulation of the drone equipment is not a requirement of the certificate.
Due to this fact the Drone Technology Program seeks to prepare individuals for the safe and effective use of drones in the National Air Space. Much like other aviation fields, students need to gain in-air hours to become marketable to potential employers. Certified commercial sUAS pilots must have knowledge of best practices when it comes to flight and operation of the remote sensing equipment. Drone Technology is rapidly being implemented in many different areas such as public safety, surveying, and inspection. There is a definite need to provide training to various entities in the local area as they begin to expand their drone capabilities
Geospatial Science and Technology encompass the areas of Remote Sensing, Global Positioning System, and Geographic Information Systems.
Students in the Geospatial Science & Technology concentration develop technical skills related to Geographic Information Systems, Remote Sensing, and Global Positioning Systems. Students learn how to create, analyze, and produce meaningful GIS maps through the application of GPS and Remote Sensing technologies. The Geospatial Science and Technology Program at MCTC is the only 2-year Geospatial Program in the West Virginia Community & Technical College System. Mountwest is the only Community College in West Virginia that offers students the opportunity to earn an AAS in GIS through course work focused on the understanding and use of Esri software.
Why is GIS Useful?
Check out the Esri website to learn more about GIS and Geospatial Science.
Remote Sensing is the use of data acquired through either satellite or drone technology to analyze and study the earth and its features.
Global Positioning System is a fairly common technology today. It is used for aiding in navigation, accessing location information, and the creation of geospatial data.
Geographic Information System is a computer software used to produce maps and analyze data for visualization in a geographical context.