News

Ellsworth Selected for FAA Training Program

UAS-logo Today Ellsworth Community College (ECC) announces the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has selected its Precision Ag program for the Unmanned Aircraft Systems-Collegiate Training Initiative program or the UAS-CTI.

“This is an exciting designation for the Precision Ag program,” said Kevin Butt, Ag Professor at ECC. “We’re teaching students with FAA-recognized credentials with this certification.”

The FAA’s UAS-CTI program recognizes institutions that prepare students for careers in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly referred to as drones. In order to qualify for the initiative, schools must offer a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in UAS or a degree with a minor, concentration, or certificate in UAS. Schools must provide curriculum covering various aspects of UAS training, including hands-on flight practice, maintenance, uses, applications, privacy concerns, safety, and federal policies concerning UAS.

The Precision Ag program at ECC utilizes drones to monitor crop production, weather damage, and other metrics. Students are able to pilot drones throughout the courses. There is a huge industry need for people with drone-handling experience, in agriculture, public safety, real estate, and insurance.

To learn more about the Precision Ag program at Ellsworth, please visit our website or call 641-648-8660.