As drone operations continue to advance industries ranging from agriculture to public safety, the demand for skilled professionals in drone technology is soaring. Fullerton College, known for its commitment to workforce development, has stepped up to meet this growing demand with its bachelor’s degree in drone and autonomous systems. This forward-thinking program is designed not only to equip students with essential drone piloting skills but also to delve into cutting-edge technologies such as LIDAR, thermal imaging and more.

Fullerton College’s drone program stands out due to its comprehensive and innovative approach to drone education. Initially focused on aerial drones and piloting, the program has rapidly expanded to include specialized certifications and incorporating hands-on training in several key areas:

• Thermal Imaging: Students can obtain certifications in thermal imaging applications, an essential skill for industries like search and rescue, agriculture, and infrastructure inspection.
• Photogrammetry and LIDAR: Fullerton offers training in photogrammetry and LIDAR, both crucial for 3D mapping, surveying, and geological analysis.
• Multi-Spectral and Hyperspectral Imaging: Advanced training in these fields enables students to explore environmental monitoring and precision agriculture.
• Drone Maintenance and Engineering: Beyond piloting, the program also trains students to design, build, and maintain drones. Students are encouraged to collaborate across disciplines such as engineering and programming to solve real-world drone-related challenges.
• Expanding Into Terrestrial and Maritime Drones: The program isn’t confined to aerial drones alone. Fullerton is embracing the future with courses on terrestrial drones (like quadrupeds) and maritime drones, including uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs).

“We started out with aerial drones and piloting, but now we’ve expanded into a wide range of technologies including LIDAR, thermal imaging, and maritime drones." Said Jay Seidel, Autonomous Systems Coordinator at Fullerton College, Fullerton’s approach ensures that students are ready for any application of drone technology, be it in the air, on land, or at sea.

Fullerton helps students transition into the workforce through strong industry partnerships. Our registered apprenticeship program for drone piloting, supported by the California Department of Apprenticeship Standards and the U.S. Department of Labor, offers hands-on training for successful careers in the drone industry. The state also recently approved Fullerton’s Bachelor of Science degree in Drone and Autonomous Systems, the first of its kind on the West Coast.

Seidel explains, "Our apprenticeship program provides students with both classroom learning and real-world experience, connecting them to employers across California and beyond." The program's expansion, which spans industries from mining in Arizona to agriculture and construction in Texas and Florida, gives students nationwide job opportunities.

Fullerton’s collaboration with external employers enhances the curriculum, allowing students to gain practical experience in municipal drone projects, design, and engineering. Seidel adds, “By working in the field, students develop both technical skills and the ability to troubleshoot in real-world situations, giving them a significant advantage in the job market.”

The college’s Institutional membership with SME has also been instrumental in expanding the program’s network, linking students with industry professionals and potential employers. This partnership has facilitated valuable connections and helped the program grow. "The networking and employer exposure have been crucial to our success," Seidel says.

The drone program is rapidly evolving, and the future looks bright for students and industry alike. With its expansion into various areas of drone technology and its commitment to hands-on learning, Fullerton is helping students become leaders in this exciting, fast-growing field.

"We’re just getting started, and the opportunities for students are only going to grow from here.” Seidel says, “We’re committed to continuing to innovate and provide students with the skills they need to succeed."

As drones continue to change the landscape of industries around the world, Fullerton College is preparing the next generation of innovators and technicians, ensuring they’re ready to navigate the skies—and beyond.