Advancing Drone Education: Insights from Tommy Sunderhaus on UAS Training, Industry Trends, and Innovation with Sinclair College
We explored how Sinclair is leading the way in drone education, industry trends, and the exciting opportunities available to students.
The drone industry is evolving at an incredible pace, and education plays a crucial role in preparing the next generation of professionals. In a recent conversation with Tommy Sunderhaus, UAS Program Coordinator at Sinclair College, we explored how Sinclair is leading the way in drone education, industry trends, and the exciting opportunities available to students.
Sinclair’s UAS Program: Preparing Students for the Future
Sinclair College has established itself as a premier institution for drone education, offering short-term certificates, associate’s degrees, and even a bachelor’s degree in UAS. With a focus on hands-on training, Sinclair ensures that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for the rapidly growing drone industry.
The program covers a wide range of topics, including photogrammetry, thermal imaging, LiDAR, multispectral imaging, and drone maintenance. The college also partners with industry leaders like Aero Velocity to provide internship opportunities, giving students real-world experience before they graduate.
Industry Trends and Emerging Opportunities
Tommy highlighted several key trends shaping the future of the drone industry:
Expansion of Drone Programs in Companies: More businesses are developing their own internal drone operations, requiring skilled professionals to lead these programs.
AI and Automation: The use of artificial intelligence and machine learning is becoming more prominent in data processing and aerial analytics.
Precision Agriculture: Drones are revolutionizing farming by providing detailed crop health analysis, mapping, and even aerial application of pesticides and fertilizers.
Surveying and Infrastructure Inspection: The demand for drone pilots with expertise in LiDAR and mapping is on the rise, particularly in construction, civil engineering, and environmental monitoring.
Advanced Air Mobility: With companies like Joby Aviation entering the space, the future of drone transportation and air mobility is being shaped right now.
Building the Next Generation of Drone Professionals
A major takeaway from our discussion was the emphasis on hands-on experience. Sinclair’s UAS program trains students not only in piloting but also in drone repair, data processing, and advanced aerial analytics. This multi-disciplinary approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the diverse roles available in the industry.
Additionally, Sinclair is expanding into new areas of possibilities, such as drone applications in archaeology and conservation. With LiDAR and multispectral imaging, drones can help uncover buried structures, something Tommy is passionate about.
Partnering with Aero Velocity to Drive Innovation
At Aero Velocity, we recognize the importance of collaboration in advancing the drone industry. Our partnership with Sinclair College has already provided valuable internship experiences, helping students gain exposure to real-world applications like LiDAR scanning, precision agriculture, and conservation projects.
As the industry continues to grow, we are committed to supporting the next generation of drone professionals by providing cutting-edge technology, expert guidance, and hands-on learning opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Drone technology is revolutionizing industries worldwide, and education is the key to ensuring skilled professionals can meet the demands of this rapidly evolving field. Sinclair College’s UAS program, led by experts like Tommy Sunderhaus, is shaping the future of drone innovation by providing students with the tools they need to succeed.
Interested in learning more about the latest drone industry trends? Stay tuned for more discussions and insights on Aero Velocity’s blog and Drone On podcast.
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