Professional Drone Workforce Training Program Launched

New 12-week pathway brings industry-recognized certifications, hands-on flight training, and high-demand career preparation to Coastal Georgia.

Savannah Technical College and the Unmanned Safety Institute (USI) today announced a new partnership to expand professional drone training and career preparation throughout Coastal Georgia.

The collaboration introduces USI’s 12-week Professional Remote Operator Program to Savannah Tech, giving students, working professionals, and career changers a direct, hands-on path from FAA Part 107 preparation to industry-recognized safety certifications and flight operations. Built on a “Beginner to Pro” progression, the program rapidly advances participants from foundational knowledge into professional mission planning, risk management, and flight execution.

“The industries driving Coastal Georgia are changing quickly, and our responsibility is to make sure our workforce is ready,” said Tal Loos, Vice President for Economic Development at Savannah Technical College. “This partnership with USI gives students and working professionals access to high-quality, industry-aligned drone training without requiring them to leave the region. It’s another way Savannah Tech is turning emerging technology into real economic opportunity.”

The demand for skilled operators is soaring. The Federal Aviation Administration reports over 480,000 certificated remote pilots nationwide, and in Georgia alone, aerospace-related companies generated $8.8 billion in GDP in 2024. As drones become essential infrastructure tools across logistics, construction, public safety, and aviation, this program delivers the exact talent the region’s industries are seeking.

As an ASTM Approved Training Provider, USI aligns this remote operator curriculum with ASTM F3266, an internationally recognized workforce standard for Unmanned Aircraft Systems remote pilots. Through a flexible hybrid model of live online instruction, self-paced coursework, and hands-on flight training, Savannah Tech participants will prepare for and earn:

• Preparation for the FAA Remote Pilot Certificate under Part 107
• USI’s Safety Level 3 Certification (Ground School)
• USI’s Safety Level 4 Certification (Flight Training)
• A Savannah Technical College certificate of completion

“Savannah isn’t waiting for the future of work to arrive; it’s already here,” said Roberto Torreggiani, Director of Academic Partnerships at USI. “By expanding beyond Part 107 test preparation into a complete professional pathway, Savannah Tech is giving people the practical skills and credentials they’ll need to put this technology to work throughout Coastal Georgia.”

Brad Tucker, Chief Commercial Officer at USI, added, “Professional drone operations demand more than technical skill; they demand aviation discipline. USI’s status as an ASTM Approved Training Provider means Savannah Tech learners will train within an independently reviewed, industry-recognized framework. That’s how you develop professionals who can make sound decisions, manage risk, and operate safely when the mission matters.”

The flexible delivery model is designed to make professional UAS training accessible to traditional students and adult learners alike. Savannah Tech and USI are also working directly with area employers to develop customized drone workforce cohorts.

See It In Action: Unmanned Aircraft Systems Demo Day

Savannah Tech and USI will showcase the new pathway and technology during a live Demo Day. The event will give attendees a closer look at the equipment and the real-world skills students will develop for career-ready drone operations.

Date: Thursday, October 8, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. to Noon
Location: Savannah Technical College, Crossroads Campus
Address: 190 Crossroads Parkway, Savannah, GA 31407

Registration information, tuition, and cohort dates will be announced through Savannah Technical College’s Economic Development division.

For additional information, contact [email protected] or 912-443-3012.