PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Fullerton Drone Lab at Fullerton College, founded in 2018, is one of California’s most comprehensive and innovative drone education programs. It encompasses a rich ecosystem of training options, from associate degrees and certificates to cutting-edge apprenticeships and, coming fall 2026, a Bachelor of Science in Drones and Autonomous Systems.
The program emphasizes three foundational pillars :
1. Piloting: FAA Part 107 preparation, NIST-aligned standards, and AUVSI Trusted Operator certification.
2. Manufacturing: Hands-on engineering, design, programming, and testing of aerial, submersible, and terrestrial autonomous systems.
3. Application: Using drones across multiple industries—agriculture, infrastructure, environmental monitoring, emergency response, cinematography, and law enforcement.
These pillars are supported by state-of-the-art lab facilities and experienced instructors, positioning students at the forefront of applied technology.
The Drone Lab collaborates with California’s energy, public safety, government, tech, and infrastructure sectors. Real-world experience comes via project-based coursework, and a fully funded federal/state-registered apprenticeship program (the first registered U.S. drone piloting apprenticeship) providing FAA/OSHA certification
and 600 hours of paid training, often at no cost to students. Engagement is the key for the Fullerton Drone Lab.
• Community Partnerships: The Lab regularly hosts events like “Droning On: California,” bringing together industry professionals, K 12 and collegiate educators, and the public.
• Drone Film Festival: It also organizes the Southern California Drone Film Festival, highlighting creative content from around the world, and includes student work.
• Accolades: Recognized as the one of the most built-out drone training program in California, the Lab has earned praise for its apprenticeship approach and rapid expansion
Graduates leave equipped for in-demand careers as drone pilots, inspectors, mappers, cinematographers, or technicians across a wide range of fields, including construction, marine biology, GIS, public safety, and logistics. The bachelor’s degree is set to deepen their expertise, and make quality tech education more accessible and affordable.
The Fullerton Drone Lab offers a curriculum that blends technical mastery, real-world application, and formal credentials, from certificates and apprenticeships to a full bachelor’s degree, anchored by industry partnerships and national recognition. It is a rising leader in preparing students for drone and autonomous system careers.
SOME PLACES WHERE OUR FORMER STUDENTS WORK
Bachelors of Science in Drone and Autonomous Systems
Fly a New Path Forward! Earn Your Bachelor of Science in Drone and Autonomous Systems at Fullerton College
Launch into one of the fastest-growing and most innovative fields with a Bachelor of Science in Drone and Autonomous Systems from Fullerton College, and attend is one of the first community colleges in the nation to offer this cutting-edge degree. This affordable, high-impact program prepares students for exciting careers across diverse industries including public safety, environmental monitoring, filmmaking, agriculture, inspection, construction, transportation, and defense. Through hands-on training, students learn to operate, manage, and maintain drone and autonomous technologies while also gaining deep understanding of systems integration, data acquisition, and regulatory compliance.
Why a bachelors degree Fullerton College?
• Affordable tuition that saves thousands compared to traditional four-year universities
• Industry-aligned curriculum designed with leading employers to meet workforce needs
• Access to state-of-the-art labs, airspace, and autonomous systems for real-world experience
• Faculty with industry experience and strong ties to aerospace, robotics, and public sector agencies
• Career-focused pathways leading to in-demand jobs in one of the most rapidly evolving tech sectors
This program isn’t just about flying drones, it’s about shaping the future of autonomous systems across land, sea, and sky.
Get a bachelor’s degree with the flexibility, support, and affordability of a community college. Your future in autonomous technology starts at Fullerton College!
2 DEGREES
COURSEWORK
This program requires the completion of 120 units. In addition to the required 62 general education units, students will complete the following courses:
Required Courses :
CIS 201 - Introduction to Python Programming (Lower Division)
CIS 261 - Drone and Autonomous Device Programming (Lower Division)
DRON 140 F - Basic Drone Maintenance and Repair (Lower Division)
DRON 105 F - Applied Drone Piloting (Lower Division)
DRON 201 F - Advanced Drone Piloting (Lower Division)
DRON 120 F - Infrared Thermal Imaging Level 1 (Lower Division)
DRON 130 F - Aerial Mapping and Photogrammetry (Lower Division)
ESC 105 F - Introduction to Weather and Climate (Lower Division)
GEOG 230 F - Map-Making with GIS(Lower Division)
CIS 361 F - Drone and Autonomous Device Programming Advanced (Upper Division)
CIS 461 F - Drone and Autonomous Device Communications (Upper Division)
CIS 462 F - Drone and Autonomous Device Coordination and Behavior (Upper Division)
ENGL 305 F - Technical Writing (Upper Division)
ESC 330 F - Advanced Earth and Ocean Science (Upper Division)
PHIL 361 F - Ethics in Technology (Upper Division)
DRON 305 F - Drone Sensors and applications (Upper Division)
DRON 320 F - Safety Management Systems for Drone and Autonomous Technology (Upper Division)
DRON 340 F - Advanced Drone Maintenance and Aerodynamic Systems (Upper Division)
DRON 350 F - Drone Law (Upper Division)
DRON 370 F - Drone LiDAR Application and Operations (Upper Divis)ion)
DRON 380 F - Advanced Drone Operations (Upper Division)
DRON 385 F - Multiplatform Autonomous Operations and Management (Upper Division)
DRON 415 F - Introduction to Large Drone Operations (Upper Division)
DRON 450 F - Drone Operations Management (Upper Division)
DRON 480 F - Drone Practicum (Upper Division
Restricted Electives – 12 units:
BUS 180 F - Small Business Management (Lower Division
CIS 210 F - Advanced Python Programming
CIS 212 F - Robotic Programming
DRON 170 F - Introduction to LiDAR Acquisition
DRON 210 F - Extended Operations and Part 108
DRON 240 F - Advanced Drone Maintenance
DRON 260 F - Multispectral and Hyperspectral Sensing with Drones
DRON 270 F - Advanced LiDAR Acquisition
GEOG 231 F - Spatial Analysis: Mapping for Solutions and Decision Making
GEOG 237 F - Intermediate and Advanced GIS Applications
GEOG 238 F - Principals of Map-Making and Cartographic Design
MKT 103 F - Principals of AdvertisingMKT 103 - Principals of Advertising
BACHELORS DEGREE
ALREADY HAVE A DEGREE?
You’re more than halfway there!
Your lower-division courses will transfer in. Some of your upper division courses could transfer into the program as well. Just take the remaining core courses and you will earn another degree, and one in a high-tech field.
DEGREES
Associate of Science in Drone and Autonomous Systems
Take your passion for drones and technology to the next level with an Associate of Science in Drone and Autonomous Systems from Fullerton College. This cutting-edge degree program offers a comprehensive and hands-on curriculum that goes beyond basic piloting skills and prepares students for real-world careers in one of the fastest-growing tech industries. Students gain valuable experience in drone operations, safety protocols, mission planning, and FAA Part 107 certification. But it doesn’t stop there. This program also introduces students to a wide range of high-demand applications, including LiDAR data acquisition, environmental monitoring, cinematography, industrial inspection, precision agriculture, solar panel inspection, and autonomous systems programming.
Graduates walk away with more than just flight hours—they earn a respected academic degree that lays the foundation for both immediate employment and further education in the field. Start your journey today at Fullerton College—where technology, opportunity, and innovation take off.
COURSEWORK
DEGREES
Associate of Science in Autonomous Systems Development
Prepare for a high-demand career at the intersection of robotics, engineering, and smart technologies with the Associate of Science in Autonomous Systems Development at Fullerton College. This forward-thinking program trains students in the design, development, and deployment of intelligent systems from aerial drones to robotic platforms and industrial automation tools.
Through immersive, hands-on learning, students gain practical experience working with electrical systems and wiring, applying foundational engineering concepts, integrating sensors and data systems, and programming control systems for a variety of autonomous platforms. The program emphasizes real-world applications, enabling students to build, test, and operate complex systems in lab and field settings.
Whether you’re looking to enter the workforce or continue on to a bachelor’s degree, this associate degree provides a powerful foundation in the technology that’s shaping the future.
COURSEWORK
CERTIFICATES Launch Your Career with a Certificate Program
Step into one of today’s most exciting and rapidly growing industries through Fullerton College’s Drone Technology Certificate Programs. Designed for students who want to quickly gain job-ready skills, our certificate programs offer focused, hands-on training without the time commitment of a full degree. Certificates can be completed in less time than an associate degree and are ideal for those looking to enter the workforce, upskill, or specialize in areas like aerial photography, LiDAR scanning, drone maintenance, and more.
What’s the difference between a certificate and a degree?
Certificate programs are short-term, skillbased programs that focus on preparing you for a specific job or industry certification—like FAA Part 107 drone pilot licensing. While a degree includes broader general education, certificates are all about direct training and practical experience to get you into the field faster..
Why Choose Fullerton College?
• FAA Part 107 Test Prep Included
• Industry-Recognized Certificates
• Hands-On Flight Training & Data Collection
• Access to State-of-the-Art Equipment
• Pathways to Apprenticeships & High-Paying Jobs
Whether you’re starting your career, changing paths, or upgrading your skills, Fullerton College’s Drone Technology Program helps you take off.
Autonomous Systems Technician Certificate
Launch Your Career in Robotics and Drones with the Autonomous Systems Technician Certificate
Offered through the Fullerton College Drone Technology Program, the Autonomous Systems Technician Certificate prepares students for in-demand careers working with drones, ground robots, and other intelligent systems. This hands-on program focuses on building, designing, and programming autonomous platforms used across industries, from logistics and agriculture to public safety and infrastructure. Students gain practical experience with robotics hardware, embedded systems, and automation software, equipping them with the skills to support, maintain, and innovate next-generation autonomous technologies.
Whether you’re starting your career or upskilling for the future, this certificate sets you on a path to become a technician at the forefront of automation.
•
COURSEWORK
CERTIFICATES
Uncrewed Aerial Systems Piloting Certificate
This is the “Piloting Certificate” in the Drone Tech program. Take your drone skills to new heights with the UAS Piloting Certificate from Fullerton College. This hands-on program is designed for individuals seeking careers in commercial drone operations, with a focus on professional piloting skills and FAA regulations.
Students will gain the knowledge and experience needed to pass the FAA Part 107 certification exam and operate drones safely and legally in a variety of industries. Whether you’re entering the workforce or upskilling for a new opportunity, this certificate is your launchpad into the fast-growing world of drone technology.
COURSEWORK
This certificate is required for those who are accepted into the Hornet Drone Registered Apprenticeship.
POTENTIAL JOBS AND CAREERS
• Commercial Drone Pilot
• Drone Photographer/ Videographer
• UAS Field Technician
• Inspection and Survey Drone Operator
• Public Safety Drone Operator
• Agricultural Drone Operator
• Environmental Monitoring Technician
• Freelance Drone Operator/z Entrepreneur
CERTIFICATES
Drone Business and Entrepreneurship Certificate
Earning the Drone Business and Entrepreneurship Certificate at Fullerton College opens the door to exciting career opportunities in one of the fastest-growing technolo-gy sectors. This certificate is designed for students who want to transform their drone piloting skills into a successful business. It provides a powerful blend of technical training and entrepreneurial education, giving students the tools to launch, manage, and grow their own drone-related ventures. Whether you’re interested in aerial photography, real estate marketing, inspections, agricultural services, or mapping and surveying, this program helps turn your passion into a profitable career.
In addition to drone-specific knowledge, students gain a solid foundation in small business management and mar-keting. Courses cover how to develop a business plan, price and promote services, navigate FAA regulations, and build a strong client base. These skills empower graduates to become confident owner-operators or pursue freelance and contract work in industries such as construction, utilities, agriculture, media, and public safety.
With the increasing demand for commercial drone services, this certificate positions students to take advantage of real market needs. The certificate is also a valuable stepping stone for those interested in advanced training or growing a mul-ti-drone enterprise.
By completing the certificate, students don’t just learn to fly, they learn to lead, innovate, and succeed in the expanding world of unmanned aviation and drone technology.
COURSEWORK
Required Courses – 8-9 units
BUS 180 F - Small Business Management 3 or BUS 181 F - The Entrepreneurial Mindset 3
BUS 170 F - Principles of E-Commerce 3 or MKT 103 F - Principles of Advertising 3
DRON 101 F - Basic Drone Piloting 2 or DRON 105 F - Applied Drone Piloting 3
POTENTIAL JOBS AND CAREERS
Owner-Operator Roles (Run your own business)
• Drone-based Photography & Videography
• Aerial Inspections & Surveys.
• Mapping & Surveying
• Agricultural Drone Services
• Drone Delivery / Logistics
Professional & Contractor Positions
• Commercial Drone Pilot
• Drone Flight
• Visual Observer / Support Operator
• Content Creator / Editor
Restricted Electives – 4-6 units
ACCT 100 F - Small Business Accounting 3 DART 132 F - Digital Imaging I 3 PHOT 101 F - Introduction to Photography 3
DRON 201 F - Advanced Drone Piloting Skills 2
DRON 120 F - Infrared Thermal Imaging Level 1 2
DRON 130 F - Aerial Mapping and Photogrammetry 3
Total Units: 12-15
CERTIFICATES Drone Journalism Certificate
Capture breaking news from the sky and tell powerful stories with a new perspective! The Drone Journalism Certificate at Fullerton College prepares students to become certified drone pilots and skilled aerial storytellers for today’s media landscape.
Offered through the innovative Drone Technology Department, this program combines journalism fundamentals with hands-on training in drone operations, aerial photography, and FAA regulations. Learn how to fly safely, shoot compelling footage, and bring stories to life from above.
Whether you’re aiming for a career in news, documentary filmmaking, or content creation, this certificate gives you the edge in a rapidly evolving field. Turn your lens to the sky!
POTENTIAL JOBS AND CAREERS
• Aerial Photojournalist
• Drone Videographer for News
• Investigative Reporter
• Multimedia Content Creator.
• Freelance Drone Journalist
• Public Safety or Crisis Media Consultant.
• Environmental or Science
Communicator
• Corporate or Government
Communications Specialist
COURSEWORK
CERTIFICATES
Autonomous Industrial Inspection Certificate - FALL 2026
Step into the future of inspection technology with Fullerton College’s Autonomous Industrial Inspection Certificate. This innovative program trains students to operate both aerial drones and terrestrial quadruped robotic systems for advanced industrial inspection across a variety of sectors, including utilities, energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing.
Students gain hands-on experience using cutting-edge tools such as thermal imaging, LiDAR, and sensors to inspect pipes, power lines, bridges, and industrial facilities. Emphasis is placed on safe, efficient data collection and analysis using autonomous systems for real-world inspection missions.
Train for tomorrow’s workforce with today’s technology. Become a leader in the future of industrial inspection.
COURSEWORK
POTENTIAL JOBS AND CAREERS
• Drone Inspection Technician
• Robotic Systems Operator
• Industrial Inspection Specialist
• Utility Asset Inspector
• Maintenance and Reliability Technician
• Field Service Technician – Robotics
• Infrastructure Surveyor
• Data Analyst – Inspection and Monitoring
CERTIFICATES
Drone and Precision Agriculture Technician Certificate - FALL 2026
Discover how drone technology is revolutionizing agriculture. The Drone and Precision Agriculture Technician Certificate trains students to operate drone systems for crop monitoring, irrigation assessment, soil analysis, and pest management. Students will learn to acquire and analyze multispectral data to assess plant health, optimize yields, and make informed agronomic decisions.
The program also includes training aligned with FAA Part 137 certification for aerial application and prepares students for the California Unmanned Pest Control Aircraft Pilot Certification, enabling legal and effective use of drone-based agricultural spraying.
Career opportunities span across farming cooperatives, agribusinesses, drone service providers, government agencies, research institutions, and AgTech startups.
Get the skills to fly, scan, analyze, and grow with the future of farming.
COURSEWORK
•
• Agricultural
• Crop
• Field
• Agricultural Mapping and Imaging Technician
• Pest Control Drone Operator
• Farm Technology Specialist
• Agronomic Data Analyst
• Irrigation and Soil Monitoring Technician
• Sustainable Farming Consultant (Drone Applications)
• Agriculture Support Specialist for AgTech Companies
CERTIFICATES
Drone Applications for Marine and Environmental Research Certificate - FALL 2026
Take your passion for the environment to new heights with the Drone Applications for Marine and Environmental Research Certificate at Fullerton College. This program trains students to use cutting-edge drone technology to monitor coastlines, track marine wildlife, assess environmental change, and support conservation efforts.
Students learn to operate drones equipped with multispectral, thermal, and high-resolution imaging systems, gaining hands-on experience in coastal mapping, marine habitat surveys, and pollution detection. Through real-world mission planning and data analysis, students build the skills needed to contribute to meaningful environmental research.
This program offers direct engagement with field professionals through partnerships with the CSU Long Beach Shark Lab and the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, providing students with unique opportunities to assist in drone-based monitoring of sharks, whales, sea lions, and other marine species. These collaborations give students access to current research projects, conservation initiatives, and expert mentorship in the field.
Whether you’re pursuing a career in marine biology, environmental science, or drone operations, this certificate equips you with the tools and experience to work with government agencies, nonprofits, and research institutions focused on protecting our planet’s oceans and ecosystems.
COURSEWORK
•
Technician
• Marine
Specialist
• Coastal and Wetland Restoration Technician
• Conservation Field Technician
• Aerial Mapping Technician
• Drone Pilot for Research Institutions
• Environmental Data Analyst (with drone specialization)
• Remote Sensing Technician
• Environmental Consultant (entry-level support role)
• Marine Protected Area (MPA) Compliance Monitor
CERTIFICATES
Drone Cinematics and Visual Storytelling Certificate - FALL 2026
Tell your story from the sky. Learn to capture breathtaking imagery. Share powerful stories. Learn the art and science of drone cinematography at Fullerton College. The Drone Cinematics and Visual Storytelling Certificate prepares students to become skilled aerial filmmakers, combining technical piloting with cinematic composition, editing, and narrative techniques.
Through hands-on training and real-world production projects, students will master drone flight for video capture, camera settings, shot planning, post-production editing, and storytelling for various platforms, from documentaries and social media to commercialand creative work.
You’ll have access to state-of-the-art drones, industry-standard editing tools, and opportunities to showcase your work through events like the Southern California Drone Film Festival, hosted annually by Fullerton College.
Whether you’re aspiring to be a content creator, filmmaker, journalist, or marketing professional, this certificate will give you the creative and technical foundation to take your storytelling to new heights. Fullerton College is where drone tech meets visual artistry.
COURSEWORK
POTENTIAL JOBS AND CAREERS
• Aerial Cinematographer
• Drone Camera Operator
• Video Content Creator
• Visual Storytelling Producer
• Documentary Filmmaker
• Commercial Drone Videographer
• Real Estate Drone Photographer/Videographer
• Social Media Video Strategist
• Event Videographer (Weddings, Sports, Festivals)
• Marketing and Branding Visual Specialist
• News and Media Drone Reporter
• Tourism and Travel Videographer
• Wildlife and Environmental Visual Documentarian
• Drone Editor and Post Production Technician
• Freelance Drone Videography Entrepreneur
CERTIFICATES
Drone Maintenance and Repair Technician
Certificate - FALL 2026
This comprehensive, hands-on program equips you with the technical skills and industry knowledge needed to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair a wide range of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), preparing you for in-demand roles across commercial, industrial, and public safety sectors.
Students in the program will gain a deep understanding of flight control systems, electrical circuitry, power systems, and drone airframe construction. Through extensive lab-based training, you’ll learn how to disassemble, inspect, and reassemble multirotor and fixed-wing drone platforms, ensuring they meet rigorous performance and safety standards.
The curriculum also includes instruction on diagnostic software, firmware updating, and sensor calibration, all of which are essential for maintaining operational reliability in both recreational and commercial UAS.
The program places a strong emphasis on safety protocols, and technical documentation practices. This certificate sets you on the right path with real-world technical skills that are immediately applicable in the field.
COURSEWORK
POTENTIAL
• Drone
• UAS Field Support
• Drone Systems Integrator
• Drone Manufacturing Technician
• Fleet Maintenance Coordinator
• Public Safety Drone
Technician
• Agricultural
Technician
• R&D
• Drone Repair Shop
(UAS)
• Technical Support Specialist for Drone Industry
CERTIFICATES
LiDAR Acquisition Technician Certificate - FALL 2026
Capture the World in 3D. Launch a Career in High-Demand Reality
Capture. The LiDAR Acquisition Technician Certificate from the Fullerton College Drone Technology Department prepares students for careers at the forefront of geospatial data collection and analysis. Using cutting-edge drone-based LiDAR systems, students gain hands-on experience in flight planning, safe operations, data acquisition, and field calibration techniques. The program emphasizes real-world applications in surveying, construction, environmental monitoring, public safety, and infrastructure management.
Students will work with professional-grade LiDAR sensors and software used throughout the industry to produce high-resolution 3D point clouds and terrain models. They will also learn how to assess data quality, apply ground control points, and prepare Li-DAR datasets for client delivery and geospatial analysis. Students have the opportunity to participate in applied projects and gain the skills employers seek in today’s data-driven job market.
Whether you’re entering the drone industry or expanding your skills as a surveyor, inspector, or environmental technician, this certificate is your path to a carer in LiDAR.
POTENTIAL JOBS AND CAREERS
• LiDAR Technician
• Geospatial Data Analyst
• Drone LiDAR Operator
• Remote Sensing Technician
• GIS Technician
• Survey Technician
• Construction Mapping Technician
• Environmental Field Technician
• Civil Engineering Technician
• Infrastructure Inspection Specialist
• Wildland Fire Mitigation Analyst
• Reality Capture Specialist
• Public Safety Mapping Technician
CERTIFICATES
Solar Panel Inspection Technician Certificate - FALL 2026
Shine a Light on Your Future As the clean energy sector continues to expand, so does the need for skilled professionals who can ensure the safety and efficiency of solar power systems. The Solar Panel Inspection Technician Certificate at Fullerton College equips students with the knowledge and hands-on training needed to succeed in this high-demand field.
Through a combination of classroom instruction and fieldwork, students learn to install and maintain photovoltaic systems, conduct professional inspections using drone-based thermal and high-resolution imaging, and analyze inspection data to identify faults, hotspots, and performance issues.
The program also emphasizes compliance with FAA drone regulations and the application of industry-standard practices for solar inspection and maintenance.
Whether you’re entering the renewable energy workforce or adding a valuable skill set to your current profession, this certificate prepares you for a bright future at the intersection of drone technology and sustainable energy.
Be part of the future of energy and technology.
COURSEWORK
POTENTIAL JOBS AND CAREERS
• Solar Panel Inspection
Technician
• Drone-Based Renewable Energy
Inspector
• Photovoltaic (PV) System
Maintenance Technician
• Solar Installation Technician
• Thermal Imaging Specialist
(Solar Applications)
• Energy Efficiency
Technician
• Renewable Energy
Techniciana
• Preventative
Technician (Solar Infrastructure)
• Drone Operations Specialist – Clean Energy Sector
• Solar Field Quality Assurance
Technician
• Site Assessment Technician for Solar Projects
• Solar Project Technician – Utility
or Commercial Scale Systems
Take Flight with Your Future Hornet Drone
Piloting Registered Apprenticeship Program
Step into one of the fastest-growing careers in technology with the Hornet Drone Piloting Registered Apprenticeship Program at Fullerton College. This unique, state-registered apprenticeship provides a direct, hands-on pathway to becoming a skilled and certified drone operator in high-demand industries.
Program Overview:
Start with the Uncrewed Aerial Systems Piloting Certificate
All apprentices begin by completing the Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) Piloting Certificate at Fullerton College, which includes:
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification
• OSHA Safety Certification
• Core flight training and operational procedures
Earn While You Learn
After completing the certificate, apprentices are matched with an industry employer and begin 600–700 hours of paid, on-the-job training. This immersive experience prepares you for real-world drone operations in fields such as:
• Public safety and emergency response
• Infrastructure and utility inspection
• Film, media, and aerial photography
• Agriculture and environmental monitoring
• Industrial and construction surveying
Graduate with Industry Recognition
Upon completion, apprentices receive an official Certificate of Completion from the U.S. Department of Labor and the California Department of Apprenticeship Standards, verifying your hours, skills, and training as a professional drone pilot.
Why Choose the Hornet Apprenticeship?
• Professional-grade drone training and flight experience
• Industry-recognized certifications
• Paid training with real employers
• College credit toward additional certificates or degrees
• Access to state-of-the-art drone labs and expert instructors
Spots are limited! Apply now and take your place in the sky!
For more information, visit drone.fullcoll.edu.
Fullerton College, Launching careers through innovation and flight.
REGISTERED APPRENTICESHIPS
Hornet Autonomous Systems Technician
Registered Apprenticeship - FALL 2026
Step into the future of technology with the Hornet Autonomous Systems Technician Registered Apprenticeship Program, a paid, hands-on training pathway designed to prepare you for high-demand careers in robotics, drones, automation, and advanced electrical systems.
This 18-month registered apprenticeship blends expert-led college instruction with real-world work experience. You’ll get paid while learning the essential skills that power today’s autonomous systems from aerial drones to ground-based robotics and industrial automation.
Program Structure
• 800 hours of On-the-Job Training (OJT)
Gain 6–8 months of paid, real-world experience working with industry partners in drone operations, robotics support, and automated systems maintenance.
• 576 hours of Related and Supplemental Instruction (RSI)
Classroom and lab-based training at Fullerton College, typically completed within the first year.
RSI includes:
• TECH 081 - Technical Math (54 hours)
• DRON 140 - Basic Drone Maintenance and Repair (90 hours)
• DRON 105 - Applied Drone Piloting (90 hours)
• DRON 240 - Advanced Drone Maintenance (90 hours)
• DRON 255 - Applied Drone Lab (72 hours)
• TECH 127 - Industrial Safety (36 hours)
• TECH 131 - Basic Electricity & Electronics (72 hours)
• TECH 132 - Electric Motor Controls (72 hours)
Earn a Wage While You Train
Paid OJT placements help you build professional skills and financial stability at the same time.
• Industry-Recognized Certification
Graduates receive a Certificate of Completion from the U.S. Department of Labor and California Department of Apprenticeship Standards, proving they are workforce-ready autonomous systems technicians.
• Short-Term Commitment, Long-Term Opportunity
The apprenticeship is designed to be completed in just 18 months, with a 4-month probationary period to ensure the right fit.
• Career-Ready in Advanced Tech
Ideal for launching a career in aerospace, manufacturing, utilities, public safety, and autonomous system integration.
This isn’t just a training program, it’s a direct pathway into one of the most exciting and essential careers of the 21st century. With hands-on experience, expert instruction, and a paid position from day one, the Hornet Autonomous Systems Technician Apprenticeship gives you the tools, connections, and credentials to thrive in today’s high-tech workforce. Take the first step toward building a smarter, more autonomous future, and be part of it.
Beyond 107 - Earn your Trusted Operator Certification TRUSTED OPERATOR
Stand out. Build trust. Fly with confidence.
Fullerton College’s Drone Technology Department is proud to offer students the opportunity to earn certification through AUVSI’s Trusted Operator Program (TOP)—the industry-recognized gold standard for professional drone operations.
Whether you’re pursuing a career in aerial cinematography, public safety, surveying, inspection, or agriculture, becoming a TOP-certified operator validates your skills, professionalism, and commitment to safe and responsible UAS operations. The Trusted Operator seal is recognized by employers, government agencies, and clients across the country as a mark of excellence.
Through Fullerton College’s drone courses, students gain hands-on training aligned with the TOP Level 1 and Level 2 standards, including:
• FAA Part 107 compliance
• Risk management and safety procedures
• Maintenance and mission planning
• Flight operations in complex environments
By completing the certification pathway at Fullerton College, students are prepared to enter the workforce as trusted, competent, and industry-ready drone professionals.
• Why Get TOP Certified at Fullerton College?
• Integrated into drone certificate and degree programs
• Training led by qualified and experienced instructors
• Access to cutting-edge equipment and flight environments
• Direct connection to real-world drone industry applications
Join a nationally respected program and position yourself as a leader in the growing field of uncrewed aviation. Your future as a Trusted Operator begins at Fullerton College.
AUVSI Trusted Operator Certification is open to anyone and does not require college application or being a registered student at Fullerton College. Please see more information at our website or contact the director. drones.fullcoll.edu
COURSES AT A GLANCE
Here is a list of all drone courses in the program. The prefix DRON takes effect 2026 and replaces the drone courses with the TECH prefix.
DRON 080 F - Federal Aviation Administration Drone Pilot Test Preparation
DRON 095 F - FPV Drone Piloting
DRON 096 F - Advanced FPV Piloting and Racing
DRON 100 F - Hornet Drone Pre-Apprenticeship
DRON 101 F - Basic Drone Piloting
DRON 105 F - Applied Drone Piloting
DRON 115 F - Aerial Imaging and Storytelling
DRON 120 F - Infrared Thermal Imaging Level 1
DRON 125 F - Solar Panel Thermal Inspection
DRON 130 F - Aerial Mapping and Photogrammetry
DRON 140 F - Basic Drone Maintenance and Repair
DRON 145 F - Beginning ROV Piloting
DRON 150 F - Autonomous Industrial Inspection
DRON 170 F - Introduction to LiDAR acquisition
DRON 180 F - Introduction to Drone Technology
DRON 181 F - Drone Industry and Applications
DRON 190 F - Counter Drone Operations
DRON 198 F - Special Topics in Drone and Autonomous Systems
DRON 201 F - Advanced Drone Piloting Skills
DRON 210 F - Extended Drone Operations and Part 108
DRON 220 F - Drone as First Responder
DRON 240 F - Advanced Drone Maintenance
DRON 245 F - Advanced ROV Piloting and Operations
DRON 255 F - Applied Drone Lab
DRON 260 F - Multispectral and Hyperspectral Sensing with Drones
DRON 265 F - Drone Spraying Operations and Certification Training
DRON 270 F - Advanced LiDAR Acquisition
DRON 305 F - Drone Sensor Technology and Applications
DRON 320 F - Safety Management Systems for Drone and Autonomous Technology
DRON 340 F - Advanced Drone Maintenance and Aerodynamic Systems
DRON 350 F - Drone Law
DRON 370 F - Drone LiDAR Application and Operations
DRON 380 F - Advanced Drone Operations
DRON 385 F - Multiplatform Autonomous Operations and Management
DRON 415 F - Introduction to Large Drone Operations
DRON 450 F - Drone Operations Management
DRON 480 F - Drone Practicum
1. Apply
admissions.fullcoll.edu/online-application
2. Follow
4. Start