Lenoir Community College Selected for FAA Training Program

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has selected Lenoir Community College’s Aviation Management and Career Pilot Technology program for the Unmanned Aircraft Systems-Collegiate Training Initiative program or the UAS-CTI. 

“We are excited to partner with the FAA to provide the highest quality of drone education and safety in our area through our Pilot Unmanned Aircraft Systems program,” said LCC President Dr. Rusty Hunt. “The UAS-CTI is a new program designed for universities, colleges, and technical schools by the FAA to recognize institutions that prepare students for careers in the unmanned aircraft systems.”

Lenoir Community College’s Center for Aviation Education, located at the Kinston Regional Jetport, is the site for the Aviation Management and Career Pilot Technology curriculum program, which offers degree, diplomas, and certificates in manned and unmanned programs. The facility is also home to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved full motion flight simulator.

“We offer a degree, diploma and certificate in Unmanned Aircraft Systems,” said Program Chair Jeff Jennings. “The UAS-CTI certification is another added value for the College to be a bridge to the public on providing a safe and effective way for drone certification. The results of this working relationship will include a continuous dialogue with stakeholders to connect colleges and universities with general industry, local governments, law enforcement, and regional economic development entities to address labor force needs.”

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 associates 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. 

For more information on the Unmanned Aircraft Systems program, contact Jennings at (252) 522-1735 or jljennings79@lenoircc.edu.